It’s expected narcissistic behavior to jump from one relationship to another. If you’ve fallen for one, you might be in hot waters. However, can a narcissist change in a new relationship? Read this article to gain insight into identifying and being in a relationship with a narcissist.
A narcissist is usually kind and empathetic in the early stages of a relationship, so it can be quite difficult to spot a narcissist at first. Once you’ve spotted one and realized that your new partner is a narcissist, your only hope would be to know whether a narcissist can change in a new relationship. Does new love soften a narcissist so that they can start behaving normally?
A narcissist who enters a new relationship could want to alter their conduct. They may change how they respond purposefully if they know their tendencies. You may have heard how challenging it may be to establish a genuine connection if you are dating a narcissist. You can think that you are providing more than your spouse is taking and vice versa. In short, a narcissistic relationship isn’t healthy at all. Due to their harmful presence, you may suffer from low self-esteem and poor mental health.
But when you are in a new relationship, you have a lot of hopes, and it can be quite difficult for Your heart to let go even if you know that the relationship is unhealthy. With all this hope, you might want to give it all to fix your relationship. For this, we’ve compiled this complete guide explaining how to identify that your new relationship is with a narcissist. Can a narcissist change in a new relationship? If yes, then how? And if all fails, then learn some ways to cope in a new relationship with a narcissist.
Table of Contents
Who is a narcissist?
To identify and get along with a narcissist before getting knotted on the fact that they can change or not, we’ll need first to understand who a narcissist is. An inflated sense of self-importance is a symptom of narcissistic personality disorder, a mental health issue. Narcissists demand excessive amounts of attention and want to be admired.
Those with this disease can be incapable of comprehending or caring about the sentiments of others. Nevertheless, beneath their outward display of excessive confidence, they lack confidence in their abilities and are severely hurt by the slightest criticism.
Relationships, employment, education, and financial situations are just a few areas of life where a narcissistic personality disorder can cause issues. Individuals with a narcissistic personality disorder may feel dissatisfied and let down when they don’t receive the treatment or appreciation they think they should get. Others might not enjoy being around them and find their relationships rocky and unsatisfying.
Most people with a narcissistic personality disorder don’t seek therapy because they don’t want to believe anything could be wrong. If they seek therapy, it’s probably for depression symptoms, drug or alcohol abuse, or another mental health issue. Accepting and completing treatment may be challenging for them if they perceive it as an insult to their self-worth. The primary form of therapy for narcissistic personality disorder is talk therapy, commonly known as psychotherapy.
More men than women have a narcissistic personality disorder that frequently manifests in adolescence or early adulthood. Although some children may exhibit narcissistic features, this is frequently age-appropriate and doesn’t necessarily portend the development of narcissistic personality disorder. That is why in relationships, women usually suffer at the hands of a man’s immense pride, as the man could have an underlying and undiagnosed NPD.
Consider talking to a reputable medical professional or mental health professional if you can identify personality traits in yourself that are typical of narcissistic personality disorder or if you’re experiencing overwhelming grief. The correct medical care can improve your quality of life and make it more meaningful, which can benefit you and the people you are in a relationship with or plan to make new relationships with.
How to identify that your new relationship is with a narcissist?
Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD) requires the evaluation of a mental health professional like a psychiatrist or psychologist for diagnosis. However, undiagnosed individuals with NPD (or who don’t want you to know that they are a narcissist, not to scare you off) may experience relationship conflicts with their partners due to their narcissistic traits. Although you may not be qualified to diagnose a narcissist, recognizing their behavioral and relationship patterns is crucial, especially when dating someone new.
The presence of several typical indications of NPD should serve as a red flag, signaling that it is time to end the relationship, which may bring up further complications when dealing with a narcissist. Therefore, it is essential to move on to someone else or to move to change a narcissist you are in a new relationship with.
Narcissism has become a popular term for self-centered people who are dangerous to those around them. Although it may be challenging to identify a narcissist when you are in a new relationship, there are specific characteristics and clues to watch for. If you’ve just started a relationship with someone with narcissistic tendencies, try to reconsider your relationship before determining if a narcissist can change in a new relationship.
- They are obsessed with their appearance and reputation
- They talk about themselves almost all the time
- They are sensitive to perceived criticism
- They give backhanded compliments
- They put you down
- They manipulate your feelings
- They lack empathy
- They are arrogant
- They cannot stand rejection
- They were overly affectionate once, and now they are ignoring you
- They have few long-lasting friendships
- They keep a narcissistic supply
They are obsessed with their appearance and reputation
A widely recognized trait of narcissists is their exaggerated belief in their importance. This attribute manifests in more than their persistent self-admiration in front of a mirror, even though they may engage in such behavior. Narcissists place great importance on their physical appearance and dedicate significant time to worrying about how others perceive them.
The self-centered focus of narcissists can result in them going beyond the expected norms to win your affection, a practice referred to as love bombing. The narcissist you are dating may inundate you with romantic dinners, trips, and conversations about your compatibility in the first few months. However, this behavior should not be mistaken for genuine warmth or empathy, as the narcissist merely assesses whether you are a suitable source of narcissistic supply during this phase.
As soon as you develop feelings for a narcissist, they will abruptly stop trying to demonstrate their care and concern for you. However, when in public, they will continue to project the image of an ideal partner to gain admiration from others. In private, without anyone to impress, the narcissist will remove the facade and resort to emotional abuse instead.
Additionally, a narcissistic partner will have unattainable standards and will not accept any of your imperfections, even though they have shortcomings. It is their insecurities and self-hatred that fuel their abusive conduct. So it’s best to access things beforehand and try to exit instead of waiting to know if they can change for the new relationship or not.
They talk about themselves almost all the time
Narcissists are fixated on themselves, making them the primary focus of their attention. They perceive the world and all its aspects in a way that centers around their own experiences. As a result, when conversing with them, they will inevitably redirect the conversation to revolve around their perspective. They lack the capacity for empathy, making it unlikely that they will be able to understand your viewpoint.
In interactions with narcissists, you may feel compelled to fight for the chance to talk about yourself, but their self-absorption means that most conversations will be focused on their own issues. If you attempt to discuss your experiences, they may become visibly disinterested as it does not center around them. This behavior can lead to resentment and unfulfilled emotional needs in the relationship, as they prioritize their needs above yours.
They are sensitive to perceived criticism
Narcissists have an insatiable need for validation and are highly averse to criticism. They may become fixated on the possibility of being criticized and constantly looking for disapproving comments. As a result, they are prone to interpreting even innocuous remarks as criticism and may react with an explosive response.
If a narcissist perceives any comment as disapproval of their actions, they often react by lashing out and launching an attack against the person. Those close to narcissists, such as partners or relatives, learn to avoid confronting them about inappropriate behavior, as they fear being hurt by their explosive response.
They give backhanded compliments
Narcissists strive to establish a sense of superiority over others and may employ backhanded compliments to achieve this. These comments are crafted with care, such that they initially appear complimentary but are followed by an insult or derogatory remark. For instance, a narcissist may remark that you look fantastic in an outfit that conceals your wide hips or express admiration for your job progress despite your perceived lack of intelligence.
They put you down
If you possess strong self-esteem and are independent, you are more likely to leave a relationship that involves narcissistic abuse. To undermine your confidence and exert control, a narcissist may gradually demean you over time, eroding your self-esteem and convincing you that you have few options should you decide to end the relationship. They may even claim to shield you from mistreatment by others, citing your dependency on them.
A narcissist strives to convince you that they are the best possible partner for you or the only person willing to tolerate you. They require a sense of importance and may thus seek to isolate you from other friends and family who might recognize their behavior and encourage you to leave.
They manipulate your feelings
Narcissists crave control over everything and everyone in their surroundings. They relish the ability to manipulate other people’s emotions, allowing them to achieve their goals more easily. Narcissists are skilled at using words and actions to make others feel bad about themselves or stir up anger toward someone else.
Within a family or social circle, narcissists may frequently speak negatively about others in the group to incite conflict. They thrive on discord as it gives them greater control over the situation. One of the most harmful traits of a narcissist is their penchant for manipulating others, especially those close to them. Their insatiable need for admiration can compel them to do anything, regardless of how hurtful it may be.
A narcissist will make you feel guilty by manipulating you for acting in your self-interest, going against your wishes. Alternatively, they may belittle you to keep you trapped in the relationship, claiming nobody else would want you because you are unattractive or unintelligent.
Moreover, narcissists often gaslight their partners by lying outright, causing them to doubt their perceptions of reality. They will try to undermine your trust in yourself, which is why it’s essential to listen to your instincts, something that narcissists seek to prevent you from doing.
They lack empathy
A defining feature of Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD) is a deficiency in empathy. Empathy involves being able to recognize and experience the emotions of others. However, narcissists have a unique way of processing emotions, and they may only have a surface-level understanding of why someone might feel a certain way without being able to share those emotions.
This lack of empathy often manifests in their new relationships, where a narcissist may act in ways they know will cause distress to their partner but not care about their feelings because they prioritize their own above all else.
They are arrogant
Narcissists hold a sense of entitlement and superiority over others. They believe they deserve the best things, including top positions and luxuries. If they don’t get what they want, they will often shift the blame to others.
They cannot stand rejection
When someone rejects a narcissist, it can provoke a strong reaction because they believe that they are superior to others and cannot tolerate the idea of someone not wanting to be around them. This is why breaking up with a narcissist can be dangerous. Also, you should consider this when starting a new relationship with a narcissist.
They may initially try to win back their partner with charm and flattery, but they can become very angry and violent if that doesn’t work. It’s essential to be cautious when dealing with a narcissist, especially during a breakup, as their reaction may be unpredictable and potentially dangerous.
Narcissism can have severe consequences on relationships and individuals. While treatment is available for those with this disorder, the first step towards recovery is the recognition of the problem, which most narcissists cannot do.
Hence, it is generally advisable to steer clear of individuals with narcissistic tendencies; if you are in a relationship with someone new and notice the warning signs mentioned earlier, exercise caution before considering further involvement with them because you’ll realize as you read further that whether a narcissist can change in a new relationship or not is quite a complex situation.
They were overly affectionate once, and now they are ignoring you
When a narcissist starts dating someone, their objective is the same as anyone else’s, to win them over. However, a narcissist takes this to the next level by “love bombing” their target, showering them with excessive affection and attention to get them hooked on their love. They also want to advance the relationship quickly, seeking to move in and gain control over every aspect of their partner’s life before they can figure out who the narcissist truly is.
Once the narcissist has their partner hooked, they start to pull back dramatically, only occasionally texting, calling, or seeing them. They may disappear without any explanation and then return out of nowhere.
The compliments and praise that were once given freely are now scarce or non-existent, and the narcissist may even tell their partner that they no longer want to build a life together. These tactics are meant to create insecurity in the relationship, making the partner crave the next hit of affection from the narcissist.
These actions make it difficult to break free from the narcissist’s control and get them out of your life. The narcissist’s behavior leaves the partner vulnerable and dependent on their approval, making it harder to walk away from the relationship.
They have few long-lasting friendships
Narcissists may appear charming and friendly on the surface, but their pathological self-absorption can make it challenging to maintain friendships. True friendships involve a selfless approach where both parties listen to each other’s problems and share equally in the relationship.
However, narcissists view the world as revolving around them, so they often struggle to be good friends, causing friendships to fizzle out quickly. Narcissists tend to make everything about themselves and may not show genuine interest in their friends’ lives or problems. As a result, their friends may feel neglected or unimportant, leading to a breakdown in the friendship.
They keep a narcissistic supply
Commitment can be challenging for a narcissist, even though some do marry. They tend to keep many romantic interests, forming a narcissistic supply or harem. This is done to ensure that they always have a backup plan in case one of their partners starts making demands they can’t or won’t meet. When this happens, the narcissist may pull back or disappear using their manipulation tactics.
If the narcissist decides to return to the relationship, they do so unexpectedly and often succeed in winning back their target. This allows them to reset the relationship to a place where they feel comfortable. The target may hesitate to make demands again, fearing the consequences. If they become bold, the narcissist will typically escalate the punishment by disappearing for longer or becoming verbally abusive.
As the cycle continues, breaking free from the narcissist’s hold becomes increasingly tricky. They always seem to come back and quickly remind their target that nobody can leave them. If you identify any of the above signs in your new relationship, your new partner might be a narcissist, and it’s best to distance yourself from them. Or now that you have identified that they are a narcissist, you might wonder if a narcissist can change in a new relationship; read on further to find your answer.
Can a narcissist change in a new relationship?
Narcissism is a personality disorder characterized by a pervasive pattern of grandiosity, a need for admiration, and a lack of empathy. Narcissists often have a sense of entitlement, an inflated sense of self-importance, and a preoccupation with fantasies of success, power, and beauty. They may also exploit others for their gain and cannot maintain meaningful relationships.
When it comes to whether a narcissist can change in a new relationship, the answer is complex and multifaceted. On the one hand, research suggests that narcissism is a relatively stable trait that is difficult to change. On the other hand, some evidence suggests that certain life events, including new relationships, can positively impact narcissistic traits.
One reason is that new relationships often provide narcissists with a fresh source of admiration and validation, which can temporarily boost their self-esteem and reduce their need for self-enhancement. In addition, new relationships can expose narcissists to new perspectives, experiences, and social norms that challenge their grandiose beliefs and force them to confront their own shortcomings.
However, it’s important to note that narcissism is a deeply ingrained personality trait that is not easily changed. Narcissists may resist feedback, become defensive or hostile when criticized, and lack the insight and motivation to change. In addition, some research suggests that narcissists may be prone to self-sabotage in relationships, engaging in behaviors that undermine the connections they seek. Despite these challenges, there are some strategies that narcissists can use to become more self-aware and improve their relationships.
- One approach is to seek therapy, which can provide a safe and supportive space for narcissists to explore their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. In therapy, narcissists may learn to identify and regulate their emotions, improve their social skills, and develop a more realistic sense of self.
- Another strategy is to engage in mindfulness practices, such as meditation or yoga, which can help narcissists become more present and aware of their thoughts and feelings. By cultivating mindfulness, narcissists may become more attuned to the needs and perspectives of others and develop a greater capacity for empathy and compassion.
It’s also important for narcissists to develop a support system of friends, family, or peers who can provide honest feedback, hold them accountable, and offer encouragement and support. This can help narcissists stay motivated and committed to making positive changes in their relationships.
However, it’s important to note that change is a gradual and ongoing process, and it’s not uncommon for narcissists to experience setbacks and challenges along the way. It’s also important for the partners of narcissists to recognize that change may not happen overnight and to set realistic expectations for their relationship.
In short, while narcissism is a complex personality trait to change, new relationships can allow narcissists to grow and improve. However, the success of any relationship with a narcissist depends on the willingness and ability of both partners to work together to overcome the obstacles that stand in their way.
What makes a narcissist change in a new relationship?
Encouraging healthy communication can help determine if your partner is genuinely interested in changing. You can express your concerns and needs in a non-accusatory way and see how they respond. It may be a positive sign if they are willing to listen and acknowledge your concerns.
It is essential to remember that change is a gradual process that will take time. A narcissist is unlikely to change their personality completely, but they can learn to modify their behavior and develop healthier coping mechanisms. Therapy, particularly cognitive-behavioral therapy, can be effective in helping narcissists learn to manage their emotions and improve their interpersonal relationships.
Ultimately, deciding to stay in a narcissistic relationship and work towards change is personal. It is important to prioritize your own well-being and set healthy boundaries. If you feel that your new partner is not making genuine efforts to change or if the relationship is causing you harm, it may be necessary to consider ending it.
How does a narcissistic partner negatively impact a new relationship if they don’t change?
It can be pretty tricky once you realize that the person you just started a new relationship with is a narcissist. Narcissistic relationships can be tough and complicated, and if they refuse to change, your hopes might go down the drain. Narcissistic partners struggle to love someone else because they often lack self-love and are so preoccupied with their own needs and desires that they struggle to view their partner as a separate individual.
Instead, they view their partner as a means to an end, assessing their value solely based on their ability to fulfill their needs. Narcissistic partners typically lack empathy, making it difficult to understand or relate to their partner’s feelings. This lack of empathy can cause a lot of emotional pain and turmoil within the relationship.
Many people are drawn to narcissistic relationships despite the challenges and pitfalls, especially in the beginning. Narcissistic partners often have charismatic and captivating personalities that can be hard to resist. They may have a sense of confidence and power that makes you feel special just by being around them. Their charm and ability to make you feel important can be incredibly alluring.
However, the downsides of being with a narcissistic partner can become apparent as the relationship progresses. They can become controlling, possessive, and jealous, leading to feelings of suffocation and an inability to maintain healthy boundaries. When their fragile ego is threatened, they can react with extreme anger or hurt, making you feel like you’re always walking on eggshells around them.
Their reactions are often grandiose and attention-seeking, which can be overwhelming and exhausting for their partners. Despite this, many people find themselves unable to break away from a narcissistic relationship due to the initial feelings of attraction and the intense emotional connection that has been established.
The impact of narcissism is particularly significant in the realm of social interactions. Initially, individuals with narcissistic traits may come across as charming and likable, particularly when meeting new people. However, over time, the appeal of their likable persona wears off as others become more familiar with the narcissistic individual’s behavior. In other words, while narcissists may be able to make a good impression initially, their charm tends to fade with prolonged exposure.
Many people in long-term relationships with narcissists describe an initial honeymoon period that is passionate and exciting but then notice a sharp decline as the narcissist’s likability decreases and their self-centered behaviors increase. Narcissists often fall in love quickly and commit easily but struggle to sustain this initial love and commitment.
When in a new narcissistic relationship, you may experience intense feelings of loneliness and feel like your needs and wants are unimportant. Narcissistic partners act as if they are always right and know better, leaving their partners feeling incompetent or angry for constantly defending themselves. This can also result in the other person identifying with a negative self-image and feeling poorly about themselves due to the narcissist’s constant criticisms.
What are the risks of changing a narcissistic partner in a new relationship?
Changing a narcissistic partner comes with inherent risks as it involves attempting to alter someone’s core personality traits. However, it is possible for a narcissist to change, and embarking on this journey may lead to some positive outcomes. The partner changing may experience a range of emotions, including discomfort and vulnerability, as they confront their insecurities and re-evaluate their identity.
There may also be improvements in communication and intimacy as the couple learns to interact in healthier ways. However, it’s essential to acknowledge that there is no guarantee that a narcissistic partner will change. Attempting to change someone can also lead to frustration and disappointment if they resist the process.
- Being let down
- Watching your partner change
- Ending the relationship
Being let down
It can be very disheartening if your partner shows some improvement but still has occasional setbacks. It can be even more upsetting if your partner does not show any improvement or gives up on therapy, making you feel helpless and stuck in the relationship.
Watching your partner change
That is certainly good if your partner responds well to narcissist therapy and implements positive changes. However, it can still be challenging to adjust to some of the changes in their personality. Your partner may undergo significant changes as a result of therapy. While these changes are ultimately for the better, it may be difficult to reconcile them with someone you originally fell in love with.
Ending the relationship
Suppose your partner continues to make progress in therapy and chooses to focus on their personal growth. In that case, they may realize they must prioritize themselves and end the relationship. This can be a painful and difficult decision for both partners.
However, suppose your partner keeps the same despite therapy and your efforts. In that case, you may need to end the relationship for your own well-being and mental health. It’s essential to prioritize your own needs and safety in any relationship.
What are some ways to cope in a new relationship with a narcissist?
If your narcissistic partner does not change, and even though your relationship is new and you just can’t leave it, you’ll need to learn to cope. Engaging in a confrontation with an individual who has Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD) may not be a practical approach, as they often strive to remain in control and may exhibit a high degree of resistance to change. It is advisable to prioritize your emotional and psychological health by focusing on your actions and establishing clear boundaries.
Developing a robust support system of trusted friends, family members, and professionals can also be beneficial in managing the complexities of a relationship with a person with NPD. Rather than trying to change the individual with NPD, you can focus on taking care of yourself and maintaining a healthy relationship dynamic.
Educate yourself about NPD
Many individuals may perceive someone with Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD) as charismatic and agreeable, making it challenging to acknowledge or detect their negative behaviors. Nonetheless, it is crucial to familiarize yourself with the indicators of NPD to develop greater awareness and comprehension of the individual’s tendencies.
This knowledge can prepare you to address any difficulties in the relationship. In addition, becoming knowledgeable about the individual’s strengths and vulnerabilities can aid in comprehending how they function and how best to manage the relationship.
Incorporating this awareness can serve as a starting point for recognizing and embracing the individual with NPD for who they are and setting more practical expectations regarding the relationship.
One helpful approach is to consult with a mental health professional or explore literature authored by mental health specialists. This can provide effective communication strategies when interacting with a loved one exhibiting traits associated with a narcissistic personality. This knowledge can empower you to interact more effectively with the individual and foster a healthy relationship dynamic grounded in mutual respect and understanding.
Build your self-esteem
Fostering healthy self-esteem can prove invaluable in navigating the potentially harmful behaviors that may accompany a relationship with someone with Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD). Engaging in positive self-talk, engaging in self-care activities, and establishing a healthy support system can aid in cultivating self-resilience and self-esteem.
This enhanced self-esteem can facilitate setting clear boundaries, asserting oneself, and advocating for oneself, all essential to maintaining a relationship with an individual with NPD. By prioritizing your self-worth and engaging in activities that foster self-confidence, you can develop the resilience needed to maintain a healthy and fulfilling relationship while effectively managing the challenges that may arise.
Speak up for yourself
Sometimes, choosing to ignore or walk away from a situation may be an appropriate response – it’s all about picking your battles wisely. However, it’s important to consider the nature of the relationship when determining the best strategy. For example, dealing with a boss, parent, or spouse may require different tactics than dealing with a coworker, sibling, or child.
If you feel that your boundaries have been violated when communicating with someone with NPD, it’s best to avoid reacting or becoming visibly upset. Instead, if you value the relationship, it’s important to communicate your concerns calmly and gently.
It’s crucial to explain how their words and actions affect your life and to be specific and consistent in communicating what is unacceptable and how you expect to be treated. However, being prepared is important because the individual may struggle to understand or empathize with your feelings.
Set clear boundaries
When interacting with someone with Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD), you may find that your boundaries are being breached. Rather than attempting to alter the individual’s behavior, it is critical to establish boundaries around any actions or behaviors that are intolerable to you and communicate them unequivocally to the other person.
To ensure that your boundaries are respected, it is crucial to reinforce them rather than issuing idle threats or ultimatums. This approach makes you more likely to be taken seriously and safeguards your well-being.
Practice skills to keep calm
Incorporating practices like deep breathing, yoga, or meditation into your routine may assist in staying composed and avoiding reacting impulsively when dealing with someone with NPD. Before setting your boundaries, taking time to reflect on your objectives or practicing what you want to say can be helpful.
It can also enable you to anticipate how the individual may respond to challenging discussions, enabling you to respond appropriately. By integrating mindfulness and preparation techniques, you can develop the resilience to navigate difficult conversations and effectively manage your interactions with someone with NPD.
Find a support system
If avoiding the individual with NPD is not an option, developing healthy relationships and a robust support network can be beneficial. Staying in a dysfunctional relationship with someone with narcissistic personality traits can be emotionally exhausting. It is recommended that you rekindle old friendships and establish new ones. Spending time with family can also be beneficial.
If your social circle is limited, consider exploring new hobbies or interests by enrolling in a class. Getting involved in your community or volunteering for a local charity can also provide opportunities to meet new people you feel comfortable around. Building a strong network of supportive relationships can foster your resilience and maintain your well-being while dealing with someone with NPD.
Insist on immediate action, not promises
Individuals with narcissistic personality traits may make promises to appease others and get what they want, and they may even be sincere in their promises. However, knowing that these promises may also be self-serving is important.
While confronting someone with NPD is not advisable, it is important to clearly communicate your wants, needs, and expectations calmly and gently. Let them know that you are willing to fulfill their requests only after they have fulfilled yours. Consistency is key in ensuring your expectations are taken seriously, so following through and enforcing your boundaries is important.
Understand that a narcissistic person may need professional help
It’s important to understand that individuals with NPD may also have co-occurring disorders, such as substance use disorder or other mental health or personality disorders, which could be why they seek professional help.
However, it’s also important to note that not all individuals with narcissistic traits have a more severe mental health condition. Some individuals may display certain traits, such as a sense of entitlement or delusions of grandeur, without having a true disorder. A professional evaluation with a mental health expert can help distinguish between these two scenarios.
Whether someone has a diagnosed disorder or just certain traits, seeking help from a mental health professional can be beneficial. Narcissistic traits can be detrimental to personal growth, relationships, and overall well-being. It’s important to remember that while NPD is a mental health condition, it does not excuse harmful or abusive behavior.
Recognize when you need help
Taking care of your own mental and physical health is crucial when dealing with someone with NPD or any challenging relationship. Seeking help from a primary care doctor or mental health professional can be important in managing your well-being. Support groups can also be beneficial as they offer a chance to connect with others who have similar experiences and can provide emotional support and guidance. Remember, you don’t have to go through this alone.
Conclusion
If you just began a new relationship and have found out that they are a narcissist, then you might be relying on the faith that they might just change themselves for this new relationship. But this is highly unlikely as narcissism is a stable trait which is difficult to change even if they are willing to change themselves.
Being in a relationship with a narcissist can be quite a nerve-wracking experience in which every inch of your peace and sanity can be sucked out of you due to their manipulative and self-centered attitude. The best thing you can do if you find out your new partner is a narcissist is to distance yourself from such a relationship and try to move on.
If that is something that is not possible for you, then trying to change them might come in handy, but this has the potential to backfire. It’s best to learn to compromise with situations and try to better things by following some ways to cope with their behavior.