Signs of Narcissistic Collapse and What to Do Next

Narcissistic collapse happens when a person with narcissistic personality disorder (NPD) becomes unable to uphold their grandiose, confident image due to a perceived fatal blow to their reputation. This leads to a breakdown which manifests as angry outbursts, irritable or defensive behavior, and verbal or physical aggression. Internally the person with NPD feels a loss of sense of self along with perceived rejection and abandonment. It can result in harm to the person with NPD and those around them.

Understanding Narcissism and Narcissistic Personality Disorder

• Narcissism: A term used in casual conversation to denote a selfish, self-serving person.
• Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD): An unchangeable character trait that involves a grandiose sense of self, a need for admiration, and a lack of empathy.

Signs and Symptoms of Narcissistic Collapse:

• Angry outbursts
• Irritability
• Increases in physical or verbal aggression
• Increases in perceived rejection
• Defensive behaviors
• Depression
• Vindictive behaviors
• Withdrawal from others

Common Triggers of Narcissistic Collapse:

• Being let go from a job
• The breakup of a relationship
• Any event that signals a loss of ego

The Effects of Narcissistic Collapse:

On the Narcissist:

• Feeling of a loss of sense of self
• Depression
• Suicide

On Others:

• Anxiety
• Hypervigilance
• Distancing themselves from the person with NPD

Coping Strategies for Dealing With a Narcissistic Collapse:

• Remember your own sense of self
• Have a good support system outside of the narcissist
• Take time away or time to clear your head
• Seek professional help and support

Recovery Strategies for Narcissists after a Collapse:

• Identify their sense of self outside of other people
• Be willing to work on themselves and admit they're part of the problem
• Seek professional counseling

Navigating narcissistic collapse can be stressful both for the person with NPD and the people who are close to them. However, with some good strategies that can help both parties, narcissistic collapse can be managed.