How to protect yourself from narcissistic behavior whether it’s a toxic parent, narcissistic boss, or romantic partner.
This module from my 3 module e-course Short Cut To Wellness is all about how to maintain and grow healthy relationships with your family. We also explore anxiety, self sabotage and so much more!
LISTEN NOW TO A SNEAK PEAK FROM OUR RELATIONSHIPS MODULE SERIES
If you suspect your partner or family member is displaying narcissistic behavior and you need relationship advice then there is a solution. I have experienced my fair share of narcissistic people and I’m not meaning the clients that I work with as a counselor, I mean personally.
I want to help you recognize the signs of narcissistic behaviors so you can protect yourself and live the ultimate relationship goals you dream of because it’s possible.
In this blog, I will show you the following:
Give you first hand experience of how I deal with narcissists.
Explain the category of mental health issues which narcissism falls into.
Provide a diagnosis description and explain what the DSM-V is.
Give you a valuable tool to managing narcissistic behavior from others.
How I deal with narcissists:
This is one of my favorite topics to cover, not because I enjoy the subject so much as because I’ve been in past and current relationships with those with personality disorders. Personally, I’ve experienced the challenges. I’ve had to remove people from my life because of the damage done by their behavior. On the other hand, I’ve also learned how to maintain certain boundaries with current people that I know who display strong behaviors of personality disordered traits and maintain an overall health in my relationship with them.
I’m so thankful that through my educational, professional, and personal experience I’ve learned the skills to deal and manage with those with personality disordered behaviors. Unfortunately many don’t know the signs and there is havoc wrecked in their lives as a result. I want you to know what to look for, how to deal with, and how to overcome the obstacles that personality disordered traits can present in order to live out the best relationships possible. Learn more how to navigate narcissism from my relationship series at my e-course Short Cut To Wellness.
2. The category of mental health issues which narcissism falls into:
Are you wondering why there is so much conflict in your relationship? Would you label it as “dysfunctional” or at least problematic? Many people are in a relationship like this with individuals whether it is romantic, a parent-child relationship, friendship, an employee or boss, or another kind. People are often left confused and wonder why do I feel depleted by this person or why do I feel “stuck” with this person. You may have great love for this individual or you may have great resentment or both.
Regardless, there is often a phenomena in these types of relationships that people don’t know are happening or can’t accurately identify. Often times in dysfunctional relationships, not always, but often there may be a personality disorder or personality disorder traits that are occurring. What is a personality disorder? You may have never heard of it. You may be familiar with it. It can be difficult to fully identify.
3. Diagnosis Description and DSM-V:
A personality disorder is a persistent, inflexible pattern of behaving and thinking that differs greatly from the norms of society or expectations of others. These individuals are often high functioning and active members of society however have character and personality flaws that differ significantly from those of others. The DSM-V defines personality disorder as “An enduring pattern of inner experience and behavior that deviates markedly from the expectations of the individual’s culture.”
Someone with a personality disorder or who have at least strong traits can be very difficult to get along with or maintain reciprocal relationships. It could include someone with narcissism who tends to overindulge their own ego and come off as a hero or entitled to those around them. They can also be very damaging to their loved ones or in close relationships as they can put down and harshly criticize in order to puff themselves up. This example demonstrates the inflexible, constant behavior that occurs in a relationship. With therapy, there can be improvements made however the personality disordered individual will have to do constant work to manage the negative behaviors that can cause damage in the relationship. There are 10 diagnosable personality disorders in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders V. Narcissism is one but not the only one.
4. A valuable tool to managing narcissistic behavior from others:
This is not to stigmatize individuals with personality disorders however to provide further education both for the individual in a relationship as well as the suspected person with a personality disorder. Once you recognize the signs then you are able to have better clarity and begin to make progress with your relationship goals. If you would like to learn more about personality disorders or navigate conflict in relationships. Check out my 3 module e-course where we cover narcissism in relationships, anxiety, and self sabotage.
Also if you purchase the Short Cut To Wellness e-course today then we will send you our free mindfulness video portfolio that covers essential tools to better manage the stress that often occurs from narcissistic relationships. This is a limited time offer only! Click here!