Narcissistic personality disorder is a disorder likely caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors which result in an inflated sense of self-importance that can affect an individual’s ability to form relationships and engage with others in a meaningful way.
Narcissistic behaviour frequently severely impacts those in close proximity to the individual, often resulting in anxiety, depression, and fatigue brought on by constant exposure to the narcissist’s behaviour. Fortunately, if you have been impacted by narcissistic behaviour and are searching for help, the expert counsellors at Horizon Counselling Plymouth are ready to help you navigate your emotions in this area in order to begin the healing journey.
What is narcissism?
Narcissism is classified as self-involved behaviour that results in the individual neglecting to consider how their behaviour might impact those around them. Although most people display narcissistic tendencies at some point or another, more serious cases of narcissism can infringe upon the individual’s ability to form healthy, meaningful relationships and often have very serious psychological impacts on those around them. Chronic narcissism, known as narcissistic personality disorder, has several hallmark symptoms often easily noted by those in relationships with or close to the individual. These include:
- An exaggerated sense of self-importance and entitlement
- Unwillingness to consider the needs of others, even if their behaviour is hurting others
- Expectations of unwavering compliance from those around them
- Considering themselves to be the unquestionable centre of attention, monopolizing conversations and blatantly looking down on those believed to be inferior
- Difficulty regulating emotions, especially when dealing with a perceived slight
- Tendencies to belittle and demean those around them in order to make themselves feel superior
Narcissists aren’t always unpleasant to be around—often, they have glowing personalities calculated to make others fall under their spell. However, being on the receiving end of their emotional manipulation can have serious and long-lasting mental health effects.
To find out more about narcissism, check out this article from Psychology Today.
How can a narcissist impact my relationship?
The effects of being in a relationship with someone with narcissistic personality disorder are often very far-reaching and can take a serious toll on your mental health. Narcissists are expert manipulators, meaning that often people in relationships with narcissists unfairly blame themselves for their partner’s behaviour, believing that they brought it upon themselves or somehow “deserved it.” Narcissists’ big, often charming personalities are calculated to keep themselves at the centre of attention, which can make the receiving party feel responsible for mood swings or irritability. Relationships with narcissists are often toxic and can affect the individual long after the partnership has ended, even impacting their ability to have successful future relationships.
Can counselling help?
It is often not the narcissist in a relationship who seeks help, as they are rarely able to acknowledge that they have a problem or to consider how their behaviour is impacting those around them. Rather, it is the people who are most impacted by their manipulative behaviours who are able to identify the issue and reach out to a professional for support. If you suspect that you are being mentally or emotionally impacted by a narcissist, Horizon Counselling Plymouth is here to help. We offer counselling for narcissists and those who are impacted by their behaviours that can address your mental health needs and coping strategies. Whether you are currently involved with a narcissist or are dealing with the fallout from a long-finished relationship, it is never too late to seek out the expert help of a counsellor.
If you or someone you know is currently struggling with the impacts of narcissistic behaviour in a relationship, the specialized counsellors at Horizon Counselling Plymouth are here to help. The effects of narcissistic behaviour can be long-lasting and far-reaching, so don’t wait, contact Horizon Plymouth to schedule your initial consultation today in order to start getting the help that you need to move on.