A narcissist often presents as super confident, but what lies behind the mask is a fragile self-esteem.  Narcissists have to be right and cannot handle criticism.   And lastly, they don’t care about you (though they claim to) and they will drain the life out of you.

Does this sound like someone you know? 

Other common characteristics of a narcissistic personality disordered (NPD) individual:

Grandiose sense of self-importance

Sense of entitlement

Requires excessive admiration

My way or the highway attitude

Easily rages (particularly in interpersonal relationships)

Lacks empathy

Many of my clients are in relationships with a NPD partner, parent, boss, friend or family member.  Some didn’t realize it.  Maybe you didn’t either.

What’s important to know is that relationships don’t have to be this way; this isn’t “normal”.

Relationships are difficult enough but throw into the mix a narcissistic personality and what you are left with is self-doubt, confusion, drama and a lot of emotional pain.  A narcissist never asks the question “Why is my relationship so difficult”?  That is because they know the answer:  It is because of you.  They never take responsibility and they are master manipulators.

This is a serious situation!  If you or someone you love could be in a relationship with a NPD individual, then please reach out for help.  A lot of outside validation and support will be needed to heal.  I speak from experience, I have been there!

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Licensed counselor and founder of Girls Stand Strong Michelle Kelley, LCSW, helps girls and women of all ages develop and improve their self-image, self-esteem, relationship and communication skills, emotional understanding, coping skills, the ability to handle difficult situations and people, and resiliency to create a brighter, better and more successful tomorrow. For more information about Michelle’s coaching and counseling services, call (703) 505-2413 or email michelle@girlsstandstrong.com.