Narcissism is a personality disorder characterized by a grandiose sense of self-importance, a need for admiration, and a lack of empathy for others.
Narcissists often believe that they are superior to others and that they deserve special treatment.
They may also be exploitative and manipulative, and they may have difficulty maintaining healthy relationships.
Surviving narcissism can be challenging, but it is possible.
Here are some tips
1
Educate yourself about narcissism.
The more you know about narcissism, the better equipped you will be to deal with it.
Read books and articles about narcissism, and talk to a therapist who specializes in personality disorders.
2
Set boundaries.
Narcissists often have difficulty respecting boundaries. It is important to set clear and firm boundaries with a narcissist, and to be prepared to enforce them.
This may mean saying no to their demands, even if it means making them angry.
3
Don't take their words personally.
Narcissists often say hurtful things in order to get a reaction out of people. It is important to remember that their words are a reflection of them, not of you.
Try not to take their words personally, and don't engage in arguments with them.
Don't expect them to change.
Narcissists are very unlikely to change their behavior. It is important to accept this reality and to focus on taking care of yourself.
4
Seek support from others.
It is important to have a support system in place when dealing with a narcissist. This could include friends, family members, or a therapist.
Talking to others who understand what you are going through can be very helpful.
If you are in a relationship with a narcissist, it is important to consider whether or not the relationship is healthy for you.
Narcissists can be very emotionally abusive, and it is important to protect yourself. If you decide to end the relationship, it is important to do so safely and decisively.
Some additional tips for surviving narcissism
1
Validate your feelings.
Narcissists often try to gaslight their victims, making them doubt their own reality. It is important to validate your own feelings and experiences.
Remind yourself that your feelings are valid and that you are not crazy.
2
Take care of yourself.
Make sure you are getting enough sleep, eating healthy foods, and exercising regularly. Taking care of your physical and mental health will help you to be more resilient in the face of narcissistic abuse.
3
Don't isolate yourself.
Narcissists often try to isolate their victims from their friends and family. It is important to maintain your support system and to have people in your life who care about you.
4
Don't be afraid to seek professional help.
A therapist can help you to understand narcissism and to develop coping mechanisms. They can also help you to process any emotional trauma that you have experienced.
Surviving narcissism is not easy, but it is possible. By following these tips, you can protect yourself and heal from the emotional wounds that narcissism can cause.
Here are some personal stories from people who have survived narcissism
From Sarah
I was in a relationship with a narcissist for five years. He was incredibly charming and charismatic at first, but over time, he became more and more controlling and abusive.
He would constantly put me down and make me feel worthless. He would also isolate me from my friends and family.
I finally broke up with him two years ago. It was the hardest thing I have ever done, but it was the best thing I could have done for myself.
I am still healing from the abuse, but I am so much happier and healthier now that I am out of the relationship.
From John
My father is a narcissist. He has always been extremely self-centered and demanding. He never showed me any love or affection, and he was always critical of me.
Growing up with a narcissistic parent was very difficult. I always felt like I was walking on eggshells, and I was constantly afraid of making him angry. He made me feel worthless and unlovable.
I am now in my 30s, and I have finally come to terms with the fact that my father is a narcissist. I have also learned to set boundaries with him and to protect myself from his emotional abuse.
From Mary
I am a therapist who specializes in personality disorders. I have seen many clients who have been abused by narcissists.
Narcissistic abuse can be very damaging. Narcissists often leave their victims feeling emotionally drained, worthless, and confused.
It is important for victims of narcissistic abuse to know that they are not alone and that there is help available.
If you are struggling to cope with narcissistic abuse, please reach out for help. There are many therapists who specialize in personality disorders, and they can help you to heal and to move on from your experience.
Remember, you are not alone. There are many people who have survived narcissism