DISSECTING NARCISSISM, NARCISSISTIC RELATIONSHIPS AND NAVIGATING HEALING IN BETWEEN

BY IAN MOSES

Narcissism is a very complex personality trait that includes an inflated sense of self-importance, a great need for attention, and a lack of ability to empathize with others. People with these traits, to a large degree, tend to be in very unstable and unequal relationships, which in turn cause great emotional distress to their partners. It is important for people who find themselves in the company of a narcissist in a romantic relationship, a friend, or within the family to understand the dynamics of these relationships.

Narcissistic Personality Disorder is a recognized mental health issue that presents with certain symptoms such as a grandiose self-view, an obsession with great success in fantasy, and a very high opinion of oneself. In relationships,these traits may play out in manipulative or controlling actions from the narcissist as they try to preserve their ideal self- image and to have their emotional needs met.

Narcissists do not do well with vulnerability and may respond with anger or contempt when their ego is injured. This plays out in a cycle of emotional abuse in which the partner feels put down and confused. Identifying these trends is the first step in breaking the issues present in a narcissistic relationship.

In the case of relationships with narcissist’s what you see is a lack of give and take, which in favor of the narcissist’s own needs which dominate that of their partner’s. This results in their partner’s feel of isolation, frustration, and low self-worth. Also to note is that which plays out is gaslighting, in which the narcissist distorts reality, causing their partner to question their own perceptions, and love bombing, in which they shower their partner with affection to gain control.

Partners of narcissists may feel like they are walking on eggshells, always trying to meet their partner’s wants, which in return causes them to neglect their own. This plays out in a way that leaves the individual emotionally drained and which also causes a loss of self. It is very important for those in such relationships to see these patterns out for what they are and to the understanding that responsibility for the narcissist’s actions belongs wholly to them and only them not our reality to fix, the reason why we have the urge to assume responsibility can be traced back to our origin stories where we socialized into believed that love is taking ownership of our partner’s issues instead of encouraging emotional accountability.

2. Seek Support: Discussing your issues with friends, family, or a therapist may give the support you need and the perspective which is required. Connecting with people who have had the same experience may also validate and empower you.

3. Educate Yourself: Understanding what narcissism is and how it plays out in relationships may put you on a better path forward. Also with knowledge, you are able to identify manipulative actions and respond in the healthiest way possible.

4. Practice Self-Care: Take care of your mental and emotional health first. Do what brings you joy, and also do what is good for your body.

5. Consider Professional Help: If your relationship becomes too overbearing, seek the help of a mental health professional who can provide you with coping strategies and tools for decision making.

6. Know When to Walk Away: In some that which may be best is to leave the relationship. Identifying when a relationship is toxic and you are better off out of it is key for long-term happiness.

In many relationships with narcissists are very tough and draining. I mean to say that to navigate through such a relationship, one has to be aware of the traits of narcissism, the play of dynamics in it, and to put in place effective coping strategies. In the end, what is very important is that individuals take care of their mental health and well-being in dealing with narcissistic behaviors.