Narcissism Unmasked
Narcissism is a word that gets thrown around a lot, but few people truly understand its depth, variety, and impact on relationships. It’s easy to imagine a narcissist as the loud, arrogant, self-promoting type — but that’s only one face of narcissism. There’s also a quieter, more insidious version: the narcissist who plays the victim, weaving sympathy into a tool for control. As a counselor, I’ve seen both forms leave people confused, drained, and questioning their own reality. In this article, we’ll explore: What narcissism actually is — and what it isn’t The difference between healthy self-confidence and harmful narcissism The two major forms: Overt and Covert (Vulnerable) narcissism The relationship cycle that keeps people hooked The brain chemistry that fuels trauma bonds How to break free — and why structured journaling is a powerful tool for recovery What is Narcissism? At its core, narcissism involves: An inflated or fragile self-image A strong need for admirati...