What is NPD? 7 tips to protect yourself from a Narcissist

With the rise in social media today, more and more psychologists are seeing the effects of victims getting caught up in the webs of a narcissist. But what exactly is a narcissist and what can you do should you be caught up in their web?

What is a narcissist?

A narcissist is someone who exhibits traits of narcissistic personality disorder (NPD), a mental condition which can be characterized by:

Excessive Self-Importance: They have an inflated sense of their own importance and a deep need for excessive attention and admiration.

Lack of Empathy: They often struggle to recognize or care about the feelings and needs of others.

Entitlement: They believe they deserve special treatment and expect others to comply with their demands.

Manipulative Behaviour: They may use others to achieve their own goals, often without regard for the other person’s well-being.

Arrogance: They display arrogant or haughty behaviours and attitudes.

Narcissistic traits can vary in intensity and may not always indicate a full-blown personality disorder.

The prevalence of NPD in the general population is estimated to be around 1% to 6.2% globally. While specific Australian statistics are limited, it's reasonable to assume similar prevalence rates. (Australian Bureau of Statistics)

How do I deal with a narcissist?

Dealing with a narcissist can be challenging, but here are some strategies that might help:

• Set Boundaries: Clearly define what behaviour is acceptable and what is not. Stick to these boundaries consistently.

• Stay Calm: Try to remain calm and composed, even when the narcissist is being difficult. This can help prevent escalation.

• Don't Take It Personally: Remember that their behaviour is a reflection of their personality disorder, not a reflection of your worth.

• Limit Interaction: If possible, limit your interactions with the narcissist to reduce stress.

• Seek Support: Talk to friends, family, or a therapist who can provide support and advice.

• Focus on Yourself: Prioritize your own well-being and self-care. Don't let the narcissist's behaviour dominate your life.

• Avoid Confrontation: Direct confrontation can often lead to more conflict. Instead, try to manage the situation calmly and assertively.

It can be quite a draining and stressful experience in dealing with a narcissist, it can take a great deal of strength to find freedom. Remember that you are powerful and when you can take back your power, you will discover that you are unstoppable and no one can take that way from you.