Top 10 Tips by Dr. Harel Papikian to Deal with Narcissism

Introduction

Imagine this: You’ve been dating someone for a few years in Los Angeles. At first, they seemed confident and charming. But over time, small things start to feel off. Every disagreement leaves you questioning yourself. Compliments feel manipulative, and criticism cuts deeper than it should. You feel drained after every interaction, but you can’t quite put your finger on why.

This is a common experience when dealing with narcissism. Narcissistic behaviors—whether in a romantic partner, family member, friend, or colleague—can leave lasting emotional scars. In a city like Los Angeles, where ambition, creativity, and networking are central to daily life, being around narcissistic personalities can affect both your personal and professional well-being.

Dr. Harel Papikian, a psychologist based in Los Angeles, has helped many individuals navigate these challenging relationships. While dealing with narcissism isn’t about changing the other person, it is about protecting yourself, recognizing patterns, and learning strategies that empower you to regain control over your life. This blog will explore what narcissism looks like, why it’s challenging, and provide 10 actionable tips to handle it effectively.

Understanding Narcissism

What is Narcissism?

Narcissism is often misunderstood. It’s more than self-confidence or vanity. Clinically, narcissism exists on a spectrum. At its extreme, it can be classified as Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD), where individuals display consistent patterns of:

• Inflated self-importance 
• Constant need for admiration 
• Lack of empathy 
• Difficulty accepting criticism 

Not everyone with narcissistic traits has NPD. Some display narcissistic tendencies situationally, such as in high-pressure work environments or social circles. However, the effects on those around them can be significant, leaving friends, partners, and colleagues feeling manipulated, undervalued, and emotionally drained.

Common Traits of Narcissists

Some signs that someone may display narcissistic behaviors include:

• Gaslighting or making you doubt your perception of reality 
• Turning conversations around to focus on themselves 
• Using guilt or shame to control decisions 
• Expecting admiration while offering little empathy in return 

Recognizing these patterns is the first step to protecting yourself.

Why Narcissism is Challenging

Narcissists often have a profound impact on their relationships. Their behaviors can leave people feeling:

• Exhausted: Constantly trying to please or avoid conflict drains energy. 
• Confused: Mixed signals and manipulative tactics make it hard to trust your own judgment. 
• Undervalued: Their lack of empathy or dismissal of your feelings can erode self-confidence over time. 

Even in a city like Los Angeles, where networking and social connections are vital, being entangled with narcissistic personalities can hinder personal growth, career progress, and overall happiness.

 

Real-Life Example from Los Angeles

A young professional in Downtown LA sought help from Dr. Papikian after three years in a relationship with a partner exhibiting narcissistic traits. Her partner constantly criticized her creative projects, dismissed her accomplishments, and demanded attention on his terms. She started avoiding social gatherings and second-guessed every decision.

Through therapy, she learned to recognize patterns of manipulation, set clear boundaries, and prioritize her mental health. Gradually, she rebuilt her confidence, reclaimed hobbies she had abandoned, and reconnected with supportive friends. This story illustrates that while narcissistic behavior can be deeply damaging, actionable strategies can help individuals regain control and balance in their lives.

Top 10 Tips by Dr. Harel Papikian to Deal with Narcissism

1. Educate Yourself About Narcissism

Understanding narcissistic behaviors equips you to respond effectively. Learn about red flags, emotional manipulation tactics, and how narcissism can affect relationships.

Actionable Step: Read credible resources, attend workshops, or consult a therapist to gain clarity about the patterns you’re experiencing. Awareness reduces confusion and self-blame.

 

2. Set Clear Boundaries

Boundaries are essential. They define what behavior you will or will not accept. Clear limits protect your emotional well-being.

Actionable Step: Practice direct statements like, “I will not continue this conversation if you raise your voice.” Consistency is key—boundaries only work if enforced.

 

3. Avoid Power Struggles

 

Trying to “win” against a narcissist often escalates conflict. They thrive on control, so engaging in arguments can feed their need for dominance.

Actionable Step: Focus on calm, assertive communication. Use neutral phrases such as “I see it differently” or “Let’s revisit this later.”

 

4. Focus on Your Emotional Health

Dealing with narcissistic individuals is mentally exhausting. Maintaining your mental health is not optional—it’s survival.

Actionable Step: Incorporate self-care routines: journaling, exercise, meditation, or therapy sessions. Small daily practices build resilience over time.

 

5. Don’t Take Their Behavior Personally

Narcissists often project their insecurities onto others. Criticism or dismissal is more about them than you.

Actionable Step: When you feel hurt, pause and remind yourself: “This reflects their mindset, not my value.” Affirm your worth regularly.

 

6. Limit Emotional Dependency

Narcissists often manipulate through emotional reliance. Reducing dependency protects your energy.

Actionable Step: Keep your emotional needs met through supportive friends, family, or activities. Avoid over-sharing sensitive information that could be used against you.

7. Learn to Say “No” Without Guilt

Reclaiming autonomy is vital. Saying “no” to unreasonable demands is healthy and necessary.

Actionable Step: Use clear statements like, “I cannot take this on right now,” without overexplaining. Practice until it feels natural.

8. Manage Expectations

It’s important to accept that narcissists rarely change their behavior. Trying to fix them leads to frustration.

Actionable Step: Reframe expectations. Focus on what you can control: your reactions, boundaries, and choices.

9. Seek Professional Guidance

 

Therapy provides tools to navigate narcissistic relationships, rebuild confidence, and process trauma.

Actionable Step: Work with a therapist who understands narcissism. Dr. Harel Papikian, for example, helps clients develop practical strategies to maintain their well-being while managing complex relationships.

10. Decide When It’s Time to Walk Away

Some relationships are too toxic to repair. Recognizing this early can prevent prolonged emotional harm.

Actionable Step: Create a safe exit plan if needed, whether it’s emotional distance, reducing contact, or ending the relationship. Prioritize your mental and emotional safety.

Healing Beyond Narcissism

Even after leaving a narcissistic relationship, the effects can linger: trust issues, self-doubt, and anxiety may persist. Healing is about reclaiming your life:

• Surround yourself with people who respect and value you. 
• Rebuild hobbies, passions, and routines that nurture your confidence. 
• Reflect on lessons learned to avoid similar patterns in the future. 

Professional guidance accelerates healing. Therapy can help you set boundaries, rebuild self-esteem, and develop tools to manage future interactions with difficult personalities.

 

Conclusion

Narcissism can be subtle or overt, but its impact is real. Recognizing patterns, setting boundaries, and prioritizing your mental health are essential steps in reclaiming control.

Dr. Harel Papikian emphasizes that dealing with narcissism isn’t about changing the other person—it’s about empowering yourself. By applying these strategies, you can regain clarity, reduce emotional exhaustion, and protect your well-being.

If you’re struggling with narcissism in your life, Dr. Harel Papikian offers guidance and practical tools to help you navigate these challenges, restore your confidence, and create healthier relationships moving forward.