Addiction is based on self-centered desires that cause loved ones to question what has happened to the addicted person. There could be discussions about whether addiction caused co-occurring disorders such as bipolar, depression, or anxiety, or if they are displaying narcissistic behavior.
What Does It Mean to Be Narcissistic?
A narcissist is “one who has an excessive interest in or admiration of themselves.” Being narcissistic is a personality trait that is often not perceived well by others. Beyond the high expectations that narcissism brings about, narcissistic people are also grandiose, selfish, and easily angered from not getting what they want.
Although a narcissist wants others to grace their presence, they cause havoc with their friends and family when they do not receive what they believe they are owed. Narcissists will retaliate to acquire what they think they deserve in emotional support and material items.
How Do I Contend with Narcissism?
When it comes to dealing with a narcissistic person, you have to be on your game. You must set boundaries with them early on, or else they run right over you without you ever knowing what was coming. Setting boundaries is a loving gesture, not only for them but for yourself as well. A narcissist will not respect you unless you give them a reason to because they hold their prerogative in high regard and demand you to focus on their needs above your own.
If they do not respect your boundaries, you may need to separate yourself for protection from their entitlement and unbecoming behaviors. Otherwise, they will keep being inconsiderate of others while keeping themselves blameless for their narcissistic behavior.
Where Do I Go For Help to Deal With Narcissism?
Therapy is recommended for someone dealing with mental health issues, but therapy is also a great encouragement for anyone with conflict in relationships. You do not have to be diagnosed with a mental health disorder to find a therapist willing to work with you.
All you need is the desire to gain guidance and clarity on how to proceed healthfully with a person who is addicted to drugs or alcohol or displaying narcissistic behavior that is making you feel out of control. This way, you can stop enabling their adverse reactions and move on in life with the encouraging knowledge you are acquiring.
Offering a full range of recovery and mental health services, Valiant Living offers “Expanded Recovery” to enrich our clients’ lives in mind, body, and spirit. Through evidence-based therapy options and the endless adventure of Colorado, Valiant fosters connection, encouraging clients to get connected to themselves, their peers, their families, and their higher power. With the power of recovery, clients are restored to full health and experience life-changing healing. Call us today for more information: (303) 536-5463
