How to protect yourself from narcissistic behavior whether it’s a toxic parent, narcissistic boss, or romantic partner.
Blog by- Kyle Short, Licensed Counselor (click to learn more about me!)
How to Protect Yourself From Narcissistic Behavior:
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 have worked 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 and an important tool 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 another valuable tool to managing narcissistic behavior from others.
Learn more about my 3 module e-course Short Cut To Wellness which dives deeper into personality disorders and ways to manage the toxic traits so you can have a safe and healthy relationship. We also explore anxiety, self sabotage and so much more!
How I deal with narcissists using this valuable tool:
This is one of my favorite topics to cover, not because I enjoy the subject so much but because I’ve been in a past relationship with a narcissist and it was exhausting without the tools I’ve now learned. When my wife and I were first married over 10 years ago, she worked for a textbook narcissist. This individual caused many problems in our lives but we didn’t know what to do about it at the time. As a husband, I wanted to help protect my wife and as a counselor I knew something was up. We both had to do a deep dive and become experts in this issue to navigate it but we succeeded with gaining valuable tools I want to share with you. Personally, I’ve experienced the challenges and typically there is a lot of conflict if you don’t know how to deal with it. One of the things that often happens in these relationships, is that the person with narcissism wants control. So one of the questions to stop narcissists in their tracks and get control back in the conversation is to ask: How do you think this makes me feel? Narcissists have extreme difficulty with empathy and this will make them stop and have to think. You’ll discover it’s a tool to help get you back in control and stop the spiral.
I’m so thankful that through my 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 phenomenon 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 either way.
LISTEN NOW TO A SNEAK PEAK FROM OUR RELATIONSHIPS MODULE SERIES
3. Diagnosis Description and DSM-V:
A personality disorder, like narcissism, 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 (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders), which is used to diagnosis narcissism, defines a 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. Their behavior can also be very damaging to their loved ones as they can put down and harshly criticize in order to puff themselves up. They have inflexible, constant behavior that occurs in a relationship which overtime causes conflict. 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 DSM-V. Narcissism is one but not the only one. This is not to stigmatize individuals with narcissism however to provide you with necessary education to know what is going on.
4. A valuable tool to managing narcissistic behavior from others:
Another valuable tool to deal with narcissists especially those in positions of power such as a boss is to allow them to see how a positive change in their behavior will benefit them. For example, if a narcissistic boss wants you to work 10 days in a row and you are exhausted, you might let them know that giving you a day off is so valuable for them. Because, it will allow you to have a break and recharge so you can give them the absolute best because after all they are worth it of course! The boss may go along with it because they are benefiting in some way. You see, with insight, you can change. Without it, you are in the dark. Once you recognize the signs and have the necessary tools then you are able to have better clarity and begin to make progress with your relationship goals. Don’t waste another minute in a toxic cycle in your relationships. Check out my 3 module e-course where we cover narcissism in relationships, anxiety, and self sabotage.
You Deserve Safety, Clarity, and Healing
Feeling trapped, anxious, or utterly lost in your relationship? You’re not alone. Healing is possible but it starts with knowledge, validation, and real support. I’ve been in a past toxic cycle of a narcissistic relationship and it was exhausting. Now I’m so relieved to actually have the tools to navigate these types of relationships moving forward.
That’s exactly why we created our Short-Cut 2 Wellness E‑Course on Mental Health, packed with insights into emotional abuse, narcissism, and personality disorders. One entire module is dedicated to navigating and healing from relationships with a partner who has a personality disorder such as narcissism.
What You’ll Gain:
Understand the tactics narcissists use to manipulate and control
Recognize warning signs early, and learn to protect yourself
Rebuild your self‑esteem, heal trauma, and move toward emotional freedom
Personal stories and strategies to resonate deeply with your experience
You don't have to stay in the dark. Empower yourself with tools to break free from manipulation and reclaim your life. Click here to explore our course and take that first brave step toward healing
Click here to enroll in "Short-Cut to Wellness"
Final Thought:
Being in a relationship with a narcissist isn't just “hard”—it’s frightening, isolating, and downright dangerous to your sense of self. But there is hope. Armed with awareness, community, and the right guidance, you can reclaim your voice—and your life.
You’re not broken. You’re becoming. Let this be the season you stop hiding and start healing.
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!
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The curriculum is a three module course that encompasses subjects such as anxiety management, relationship conflict, and self sabotage. I also have included in the beginning of my course the foundational, secret ingredient that I believe is essential for growth that so many therapists don’t cover. This e-course is not like other self help tools. I have streamlined it for easy access and clarity of each step of the way. I also assist along the course work through narration and visual guides to support your efforts. I hope you come along the movement that so many people are joining to produce effective and lasting change. It’s a revolution in the mental health and counseling fields. It’s the Short Cut to Wellness!
Blog by- Kyle Short Licensed Counselor