The official diagnostic definition of narcissism describes an individual with impairments to self-direction, intimacy, identity, and empathy. It also says that a narcissist is dependent on others for self-esteem and validation and has a grandiose sense of self. 

Narcissism manifests itself in relationships through what is known as “love-bombing” in the beginning. What this means is that the narcissist will come on very strong and make you feel incredibly special, often by putting you on a pedestal. They will likely take you out on fancy dates, give you gifts, and dote on you endlessly in an attempt to inflate your ego. They are also likely to say those three little words, “I love you”, way too soon. 

However, this false period of euphoria is most often short-lived, as the narcissist will either grow bored of you and break things off, which is known as “narcissistic discard”, or the signs of narcissism will become more apparent if they decide to continue dating you. The sudden shift from being a seemingly perfect partner to a partner who is quick to anger, self-absorbed, and judgmental can cause you to not only question yourself but also your perception of your partner. In fact, you are often left to question where the kind and the doting person you were dating has gone.

In Narcissistic Relationships: Strategies to Emotionally Detach, Steps to End the Relationship, and Coping Mechanisms to Help You Stay Away, we are going to start by looking at nine specific signs that you are in a relationship with a narcissist. Then, we will talk about 15 strategies to emotionally detach yourself from a narcissist, followed by nine sure steps to break up with a narcissist. Next, we will jump into 10 survival tips for after the breakup, coping mechanisms to help you stay away, and seven positive affirmations for narcissistic abuse. Finally, we will look at some additional resources where you can find several choices for online therapy, among other things.