Dealing with narcissistic people is like banging your head against a wall, no matter what you do or say, you are the one who always ends up getting hurt.
The term “narcissist” has become a catchphrase in today’s world. It is used to describe anyone who has an obnoxious ego, a sense of entitlement, or a lack of respect for others. The ability to become a pseudo-celebrity and achieve instant digital gratification has turned society into an insatiable, ego-driven monster. In this new fiber-optic world of plastic smiles and filtered selfies, where is the actual human?
True narcissism transcends excessive cruelty and bribery; It is a source of troubled relationships for everyone involved with narcissists. Unlike some mental illnesses that only affect the individual, narcissism is an affliction that causes more harm to the people around than it does to the actual narcissist.
Narcissistic personality disorder is one of several personality disorders defined by the American Psychiatric Association, yet a formal diagnosis is considered rare. Only between 0.05 and 1 percent of Americans have been formally diagnosed with NPD. However, the traits of a narcissistic individual are more obvious and common.
The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) identifies hallmarks of a narcissistic individual, which include a highly exaggerated sense of self-importance, a persistent sense of entitlement, and a need for admiration and attention. These individuals completely lack empathy and respect for others and manipulate and blackmail people for their own personal gain – even their children and loved ones.
Those with NPD or similar traits have trouble regulating their emotions, moods, and behaviors, leading to explosive rage, jealousy, and fierce arguments. Despite their bombastic exterior, narcissistic individuals experience low self-worth, vulnerability, and shame. Unfortunately, they choose to fight these feelings in negative and destructive ways that also deeply affect those around them.
Related: Conversational Narcissism: 5 Signs To Spot A Conversational Narcissist
It is important to understand that someone can have many of the traits of a narcissistic person, but not be formally diagnosed as such. Traits of narcissism are more common than actual narcissistic personality disorder.
Although treatment is available for some of the biological side effects, such as depression and anxiety, there is no definitive cure for this disorder. People with such high and excessive self-esteem do not believe there is anything wrong with them and will not tolerate insults or perceived criticism. The burden of recovery and healing falls on the shoulders of the narcissist’s victims: parents, children, lovers, co-workers, and friends.
Recovery begins with recognition and awareness. It is important for those dealing with narcissistic individuals to recognize the landscape they are in and focus on what can be protected: themselves. It is possible to find clarity in a world of false grandiosity.
