It can be difficult to break free from the control of someone who has narcissistic personality disorder (NPD), especially in close relationships. NPD belongs to the Dark Tetrad of personality traits, which are characterized to be toxic and destructive. Extreme self-centeredness, entitlement, haughtiness, and a lack of empathy are characteristics of narcissists. Everyone has been capable of showing these traits from time to time, but they make up a narcissist’s core personality. It can be emotionally damaging for spouses or kids to deal with their behavior for years.
There are several different types of narcissists, including: grandiose (charismatic and self-assured), vulnerable (victim mentality), malignant (manipulative and vindictive), communal (seeking admiration through “good” activities), and dark empaths (emotionally intelligent but still self-serving). In order to manipulate others and serve their own interests, narcissists use strategies such as gaslighting, blame shifting, and love bombing.
It takes careful planning to get away from a narcissist successfully. Steps include creating new contact information, adjusting legal documents, separating finances, and recording abuse. To prevent the narcissist from sabotaging escape plans, all preparation should be carried out in secret. Leave only when the narcissist is gone, and ask for help from authorities or friends and family. Leaving a narcissist can be the beginning of the road to a safer, happier life, despite the anguish it causes.
