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It’s Not Just You

10 Ways Being Around a Narcissist Changes How You Feel

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It’s Not Just You

By: Arwen Belrose
Narrated by: Robin C. Hessmann
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About this listen

Have you ever spent time with someone who seems to make every conversation about themselves? Maybe they constantly talk about their accomplishments, need to be the center of attention, rarely admit when they’re wrong, and seem baffled—or even annoyed—when others express pain or vulnerability. They might appear charming to the outside world, but behind closed doors, interactions with them can feel draining, one-sided, or downright confusing. If this sounds familiar, you may have encountered someone with narcissistic traits.

Let’s be clear: not everyone who shows narcissistic behaviors has Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD), which is a diagnosable mental health condition requiring professional evaluation. In fact, most people exhibit a degree of self-focus from time to time. But consistent, patterned narcissistic behavior—especially when it involves a lack of empathy, emotional manipulation, or control—can have a profound impact on those exposed to it. Whether it’s a partner, a parent, a boss, a friend, or even a sibling, being around someone with significant narcissistic traits can slowly and quietly change the way you feel about yourself and the world.

What makes this dynamic so damaging is that it often doesn’t start out feeling dangerous. At first, you might find the person magnetic, confident, or even protective. You may have admired their drive or been pulled in by their charisma. But over time, the relationship begins to shift. Your emotions might start to feel like liabilities. Your needs become inconvenient. And little by little, you start to shrink—not physically, but emotionally. You smile less. Apologize more. Second-guess your instincts. Dismiss your own needs. You begin to wonder: Am I the problem?

©2025 Deep Vision Media t/a Zentara UK (P)2025 Deep Vision Media t/a Zentara UK
Abuse Dysfunctional Families Mental Health Parenting & Families Personal Development Personality Disorders Psychology Psychology & Mental Health Relationships Emotion Inspiring

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Listener received this title free

I wish I had read this years ago. It helped me understand the emotional toll of being around someone who constantly manipulates and invalidates. The insights are practical, compassionate, and deeply relatable. It made me realize I wasn’t going crazy—it was the environment affecting me.

A Lifesaver for Anyone in a Toxic Relationship

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I’m in therapy now, but this book was one of my first steps to healing. It’s written with compassion and clarity, and it doesn’t label or shame. It just explains and empowers

Excellent Resource for Healing

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Listener received this title free

This book doesn’t just describe the problem—it helps you reclaim your sense of self. The section on how narcissists make you doubt your instincts was especially powerful. I’ve reread it multiple times because it’s packed with wisdom. If you’ve ever felt like you’re "losing yourself" in a relationship, this book will help you see the truth and start healing.

Empowering and Insightful

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Listener received this title free

No dramatics, no yelling—just truth, clarity, and emotional support. I cried reading it because I felt like someone finally understood me.

A Quietly Powerful Read

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Listener received this title free

This book was like reading my own experience on paper. It validated so many feelings I had struggled to explain, especially the confusion and self-doubt. The way it unpacks subtle emotional changes is powerful. A must-read for those healing from toxic dynamics.

A Lifeline for Anyone Recovering from Narcissistic

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Listener received this title free

This book helped me see how much damage was done in a past relationship with a narcissistic friend. The subtle ways our emotions are dismissed or twisted are described perfectly. If you're feeling confused, anxious, or drained around someone, this book can help you understand why—and what to do next.







Eye-Opening and Emotionally Healing

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Listener received this title free

I felt so small after dealing with a narcissistic sibling for years. This book made me feel strong again. It’s more than information—it’s empowerment.

Empowering and Eye-Opening

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Listener received this title free

I ended a long-term friendship last year and couldn’t figure out why I felt so drained. This book explained it perfectly—friends with narcissistic traits make everything about them while dismissing your struggles. The emotional toll is real, and this book helped me see that I wasn’t overreacting. If you feel like your friendships are one-sided, read this.

Spot-On Analysis of Narcissistic Friendships

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Listener received this title free

I appreciated that this book didn’t try to diagnose or pathologize, but instead focused on behavior and its impact. It’s a helpful tool for anyone needing clarity on difficult relationships

Straightforward and Empathetic

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Listener received this title free

This book gave me the clarity I’ve been needing for years. I always felt like something was wrong in my relationship, but I couldn’t pinpoint what. The way the author breaks down how narcissists chip away at your self-worth was incredibly validating. I now feel less alone and more empowered.

Finally, Someone Put My Experience Into Words

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