The Painful Effects of Being in a Relationship With a Narcissist

In a relationship with a narcissist, there is an imbalance of power, control and sense of worth. A person may feel they are constantly walking on eggshells, struggling to make the other person happy but never able to do so. It is an extremely difficult situation to be in, which can cause lasting psychological damage.

Narcissists have an exaggerated sense of self-importance, often pretending to be much more important than they really are. They love to dominate and control conversations. The most important thing to them is always themselves. This can lead to a one-sided relationship where the individual feels completely drained by their partner’s overwhelming need for attention.

The narcissist's desire for complete control can lead to extreme situations, such as restriction of movements or control over finances. The individual may be trapped in an endless cycle of manipulation, feeling like they can never win. They may feel like their own needs and wants don't matter or that anything they do is wrong.

An individual in a relationship with a narcissist can be dragged into a downward spiral of low self-esteem and depression. As they get constantly berated and belittled by their partner, they may never reach a sense of peace and security. The constant barrage of criticism leaves them feeling inadequate and worthless.

The narcissist's lack of empathy can leave their partner feeling neglected and alone. They often treat their partner unfairly and unkindly, never properly validating their feelings. This can create immense emotional pain and distance in the relationship.

Over time, individuals who experience this kind of treatment are likely to develop severe trust issues, anxiety, and other psychological problems. Even after leaving the relationship, it could take years to heal from the damage that has been done.

When being in a relationship with a narcissist, it is important to remember that no matter what does or does not happen, the individual should try to maintain their sense of identity and self-worth. It is essential to set healthy boundaries and remember that it is possible to change the situation and find peace.