To stop the cycle of abuse, refuse to engage with the narcissist. Walk away from arguments and do not show visible anger, as it feeds their ego. The narcissist may react with various emotions similar to the grieving process, including gaslighting, threats, or even violence. They might tease, call you in tears, or threaten self-harm to manipulate you into maintaining contact. Stay firm and cut off all communication.
Concrete Steps to Shut Down a Narcissist
- Block All Contact: Phone numbers, social media accounts, emails—everything. Leave no loophole for the narcissist to contact you.
- Find Support: Confide in trusted individuals who validate your experience and provide emotional support.
- Consider a PPO (Personal Protection Order): Protect yourself from potential violence or stalking, as the narcissist may become unpredictable when cut off.
- Inform Others: Let mutual friends and family know not to relay any messages from the narcissist. You don’t need to explain in detail if you’re not comfortable, but closing these channels is crucial.
No Contact: The Only Way
Narcissists will not change, and the only effective method is complete and total removal from your life. Studies show that personality disorders, unlike mental illnesses, are deeply ingrained and rarely responsive to therapy. Narcissists often won’t admit they have a problem, making treatment ineffective. Even if they do, it’s often for manipulative purposes rather than genuine self-improvement.
Narcissistic Personality Disorder affects over 6% of the population. Unlike mental illnesses, which can often be treated with medication, personality disorders stem from deep-seated behavioral patterns. Narcissists have learned to elicit specific reactions and emotions from people to satisfy their self-fulfilling agendas, making them resistant to change.
No Contact: The Only Way to Shut Down a Narcissist
Continue reading on the next page
Sharing is caring!
