Discovering that someone close to you might exhibit narcissistic tendencies can feel confusing and overwhelming. As a trauma therapist specializing in narcissistic abuse recovery, I’ve worked with many individuals who face this exact challenge. In this article, I’ll guide you through identifying narcissistic behavior, managing your emotions, and protecting your mental health.
What Are the Signs of Narcissism?
Narcissism exists on a spectrum. Please note this blog post is not intended to be used for diagnosis.
Some common signs of problematic narcissism include:
Lack of empathy: Difficulty understanding or caring about others’ feelings.
Manipulative tendencies: Using guilt, gaslighting, or other tactics to control situations.
Excessive need for admiration: Constantly seeking validation or attention.
Entitlement: Believing they deserve special treatment or privileges.
Difficulty with criticism: Responding to feedback with defensiveness, anger, or blame.
It’s important to note that occasional selfishness or confidence doesn’t equate to narcissism. Context and patterns of behavior matter.
What Should You Do?
If you suspect someone close to you may have narcissistic traits, it’s crucial to approach the situation thoughtfully. Here are some steps to consider:
Validate Your Feelings
Recognize and honor your emotions. It’s normal to feel confused, hurt, or frustrated. Journaling, talking to a trusted friend, or seeking therapy can help you process your thoughts.
Set Boundaries
People with narcissistic tendencies often test limits. Clearly define what is acceptable behavior and enforce consequences if boundaries are crossed. For example:
“I’m not comfortable continuing this conversation if it involves yelling.”
Avoid Engaging in Power Struggles
Arguments can escalate quickly, especially if they feel like a threat to their self-image. Keep conversations neutral and avoid trying to “win.”
Educate Yourself
Understanding narcissistic behavior can empower you. Learn about concepts like gaslighting, projection, and love-bombing to identify patterns and protect yourself.
Practice Self-Care
Dealing with narcissistic individuals can be draining. Prioritize activities that recharge you, whether it’s yoga, spending time with friends, or pursuing hobbies.
Seek Professional Support
Therapy can be an invaluable tool for navigating relationships with narcissistic individuals. A trained therapist can help you unpack your experiences and create a tailored plan to protect your well-being.
When to Reconsider the Relationship
In some cases, maintaining a close relationship with someone who exhibits strong narcissistic tendencies may not be safe or healthy. If their behavior becomes abusive or consistently undermines your self-worth, stepping back or limiting contact might be necessary.
Ending relationships, especially with close family members or partners, can be incredibly painful. However, prioritizing your mental health is essential.
A Word of Encouragement
Recognizing narcissistic traits in someone close to you is a significant step. It shows self-awareness and a desire to create a healthier environment for yourself. While the path forward may be challenging, you don’t have to navigate it alone. Support, education, and self-care can make a world of difference as you move toward a more balanced and fulfilling life.
Feel free to reach out if you need guidance or want to explore therapy options for narcissistic abuse recovery. You deserve to feel heard, respected, and safe in all your relationships.
Take care of yourself – you’re worth it.
Warmly, Sophia
Trauma Therapist Specializing in Relational Healing
Looking for More Support?
Book a Free 15-Minute Consultation with Sophia Here (Open to residents of BC, SK, MB, and ON, Canada): https://superbloomwellness.intakeq.com/booking
About the Author
Sophia is a trauma therapist, a dietitian, and most importantly, a fellow human navigating the complexities of the human experience. She holds both a Bachelor of Science in Nutrition and a Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology. She is deeply passionate about walking alongside clients looking to heal from various forms of trauma, such as complex trauma (including C-PTSD), betrayal trauma, relationship trauma, childhood trauma, parental trauma, narcissistic abuse, and/or intergenerational trauma. She specializes in supporting clients through healing the impacts that trauma can have on their most important relationships: including their relationship with self, with others, with their body, and with food. She draws from numerous trauma-focused modalities including EMDR, Internal Family Systems (IFS), Somatic and Mindfulness-Based Approaches, Attachment Theory, Polyvagal Theory, and Psychodynamic Therapy.
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