Narcissistic personality disorder (NPD) is a complex mental health condition that many people struggle with—unfortunately, some people with symptoms of NPD may use verbal or physical abuse as a control tactic to cope with internal feelings of insecurity. Abusive individuals often use tactics like screaming, name-calling, or manipulation to threaten you into submission. We know it can be scary to deal with an abuser’s rage, and we’re here to help. Remember that you have the right to live a life free of emotional and physical abuse, no matter what the abuser says. Here’s our guide on how to respond to abuse so that you can live a happier, healthier, and safer life.
This article is based on an interview with our licensed professional clinical counselor, Jay Reid. Check out the full interview here.
Steps
Expert Q&A
Tips
- Keep in mind that not everyone who has NPD is abusive or an abuser. On the flip side, many people are abusive to partners without having any symptoms of or a diagnosis with NPD. [15] X Research sourceThanks
- Remember that NPD is a legitimate personality disorder that can only be diagnosed by a psychiatric professional—while the impact of your abuse is valid no matter the case, avoid labeling ex-partners and friends as “narcissists” without an official diagnosis. [16] X Trustworthy Source Mayo Clinic Educational website from one of the world's leading hospitals Go to sourceThanks
- If someone has escalated their abuse to the extent you feel like your safety is in danger, please contact the police or someone who you trust to step in and keep you safe. You may also want to consider filing for a restraining order.Thanks
References
- ↑ Jay Reid, LPCC. Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor. Expert Interview. 7 August 2020.
- ↑ https://www.helpguide.org/articles/mental-disorders/narcissistic-personality-disorder.htm
- ↑ Jay Reid, LPCC. Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor. Expert Interview. 7 August 2020.
- ↑ https://www.bumc.bu.edu/facdev-medicine/files/2011/08/I-messages-handout.pdf
- ↑ https://www.helpguide.org/articles/mental-disorders/narcissistic-personality-disorder.htm
- ↑ Liana Georgoulis, PsyD. Licensed Psychologist. Expert Interview. 6 September 2018.
- ↑ https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/peaceful-parenting/202111/how-live-narcissist-and-take-your-power-back
- ↑ https://healthypsych.com/psychology-tools-how-to-take-a-time-out/
- ↑ https://www.mindful.org/disarming-the-narcissist/
- ↑ Jay Reid, LPCC. Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor. Expert Interview. 7 August 2020.
- ↑ Jay Reid, LPCC. Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor. Expert Interview. 7 August 2020.
- ↑ Jay Reid, LPCC. Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor. Expert Interview. 7 August 2020.
- ↑ Adam Dorsay, PsyD. Licensed Psychologist & TEDx Speaker. Expert Interview. 11 April 2019.
- ↑ Jay Reid, LPCC. Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor. Expert Interview. 7 August 2020.
- ↑ https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/narcissistic-personality-disorder-npd
- ↑ https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/narcissistic-personality-disorder/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20366690