Victims of narcissism experience stress and may exhibit symptoms of depression or post-traumatic stress. Interactions with narcissists can be stressful, and victims may experience financial exploitation and verbal abuse. After ending a relationship, victims may struggle with residual stress, depression, and codependency.
Victims of narcissism are individuals who have some type of relationship with a narcissist. The common characteristics of victims of narcissism can vary greatly depending on the type of relationship the victim has had with a narcissist. Very often, however, victims of narcissism are under significant amounts of stress and may exhibit various symptoms consistent with those who are coping with long-term stress. In situations where a victim is being abused by the narcissist, the victim may demonstrate the classic symptoms of an abused person, such as fear and indecisiveness. Those who manage to end their relationship with a narcissist may experience symptoms of depression or post-traumatic stress.
People who have to interact with narcissists on a regular basis may find that these interactions can prove quite stressful because the narcissist typically will not acknowledge that the victim has legitimate wants or needs or even thoughts of their own. Even in professional relationships where the victim does not have to live with a narcissist or carry on a personal relationship outside of the office, the victim may find that interacting with someone who does not show mutual respect is extremely stressful. The victim in a professional setting may also find their job performance diminishing, as a narcissist continually undermines their confidence or work commitment.
Those who have family or intimate relationships with narcissists may develop other symptoms due to the closeness of their relationship. Family members, spouses and partners may be financially exploited by a narcissist, who may believe that they are above normal work and may refuse to take work that makes it profitable. Because the narcissist doesn’t recognize that people might need or want to keep their money for themselves, he may have no problem borrowing money he has no intention of repaying or simply expecting the victim to back him up. These victims of narcissism may find themselves verbally abused if they confront the narcissist or refuse his requests. Apologies for these outbursts rarely come from the narcissist.
After breaking up with a narcissist or ending a relationship, victims of narcissism may continue to struggle with residual stress, depression, and feelings of guilt. In some cases, a narcissist can be a very charming friend or partner, and the victim may have developed a codependent relationship from which it can take some time to recover. These victims may alternately feel anger and sadness as they adjust to life independently of a highly dysfunctional relationship.
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