When a narcissist begins to lose their sources of narcissistic supply (attention, admiration, or validation), they may exhibit certain signs and behaviors. These signs can vary depending on the individual, but some common indicators include:
- Increased Agitation: A narcissist may become more agitated, irritable, or frustrated when they are not receiving the level of attention and admiration they desire.
- Hoovering: In an attempt to regain lost supply, a narcissist may engage in hoovering, which involves reaching out to past sources of supply, often with promises, apologies, or attempts to rekindle the relationship.
- Grandiosity and Bragging: When facing a shortage of supply, a narcissist may engage in excessive bragging, boasting, and self-aggrandizement to attract attention and admiration.
- Manipulative Behavior: A narcissist may intensify manipulative behaviors, such as guilt-tripping, gaslighting, or playing mind games, to regain control over their sources of supply.
- Seeking New Targets: In some cases, a narcissist may quickly seek out new targets or sources of supply to replace those they’ve lost. They often engage in love-bombing and idealization of new individuals to win their favor.
- External Validation: Narcissists may increasingly seek external validation through social media, public recognition, or seeking out environments where they can receive admiration and attention.
- Loss of Charm: As a narcissist’s supply diminishes, their charm and charisma may wane, revealing more of their true, manipulative nature.
- Depression or Anxiety: Some narcissists may experience symptoms of depression or anxiety when they face a loss of supply. They may feel empty or worthless without the validation they seek.
- Retaliation: If a narcissist perceives that someone has rejected or abandoned them, they may attempt to retaliate through smear campaigns, character assassination, or other forms of revenge.
It’s important to note that these signs can vary in intensity and duration, depending on the specific narcissist and the circumstances. Letting go of a narcissist can be a challenging process, and it’s essential to prioritize your own well-being and establish boundaries to protect yourself from further manipulation or harm. If you’re dealing with a narcissist, seeking support from friends, family, or a mental health professional can be beneficial.
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