Narcissists are often “all or nothing” people. And they seemingly care about their health tremendously, or not at all.
In this article, I’ll break down narcissists attitudes towards health. And why they behave how they do, towards their own health, and the health of others.
First I’ll talk about narcissists who don’t care about their health…
Please Check Out The Following Video To Aid Your Understanding…
Narcissists Who Don’t Care About Their Health
Contrary to the classical vain narcissist, many narcissists don’t care about their health. Not one bit.
These narcissists are usually lower functioning. And don’t have the patience for the daily grind in the gym. And they lack the impulse control to avoid things that are bad for you, such as smoking, alcohol, drugs, snacks, etc.
These narcissists often kid themselves that they’re genetically gifted. And the abuse they give their bodies won’t affect them. Because they’re so special.
Narcissists can also be so deluded that they don’t see how out of shape they are. And their mind sees a robust Adonis staring back at them in the mirror. When they actually resemble a rancid prune.
So they indulge in bad habits in the firm belief they’re fine. Even in the face of medical advice, logic, and common sense. And they may even look down their noses at “lesser mortals” who exercise and eat healthy.
Narcissists Who Care About Their Health
Some narcissists are the complete opposite. And their body is a temple.
They may practically live in the gym. Eat a clean diet. And even brush their teeth several times a day.
These narcissists are usually motivated by vanity rather than health. Which is why many resort to steroids, which is obviously not good for long term health.
These narcissists may also wreck their teeth with veneers. Have multiple plastic surgeries. And dress in the finest clothes money can buy. Which shows that their concerns for health is only skin deep.
Overweight Narcissists
Overweight narcissists are often in complete denial. They blame everything imaginable for their weight gain – except themselves.
They may claim that they barely eat, despite being double their ideal weight. And blame a low metabolism, thyroid issues, etc.
These narcissists don’t accept responsibility for their weight. So they’re unlikely to change.
To combat feelings of inferiority, overweight narcissists often look down on people who are in shape. Calling them vain and “skinny”, as if it’s a mortal sin.
In Shape Narcissists
Narcissists who are in shape usually look down their noses at overweight people. And they’re almost obsessive about it.
These narcissists view overweight people as second class citizens. And may be reluctant to even talk to them.
In shape narcissists may berate their loved ones for being a pound overweight. And may bombard them with put downs and subtle digs.
These narcissists rationalise this as “tough love”. Claiming they’re trying to help. But really it’s a stick they use to beat them with. Because there’s much nicer ways of going about it.
Out Of Shape Narcissists With An In Shape Partner
If the narcissist is out of shape and their partner wants to get in shape, then expect resistance. Lots of it.
Narcissists don’t want to play second fiddle in their relationships. And they can’t handle the prospect of their partners gaining all the plaudits for their looks and health. So rather than be happy for them, they usually sabotage their efforts.
Narcissists are deeply insecure in their relationships. And they worry that they might lose their partner if they look healthier and more attractive.
These narcissists might buy takeaways and snacks to entice you away from your health kick. And may sabotage your attempts to go to the gym.
These sabotages might include telling you how selfish you are spending time at the gym. Hiding your gym clothes or car keys. Causing an argument before you go, so you no longer feel like it. And if all that fails, they may accuse you of having an affair with the gym instructor, even though there’s no evidence to back it up.
Use Health To Play The Victim
Some narcissists use health conditions to play the victim. They do this to get out of their responsibilities. Gain sympathy and attention. And to get others to care for them.
These narcissists often suffer with invisible illnesses, such as bad backs, fibromyalgia, fatigue, etc. And they flare up at convenient times for them. But never get in the way of anything they want to do.
If there’s a family gathering that’s not focussed on the narcissist, then their health conditions may dramatically flare up. Just to put the spotlight back on them.
Narcissists And Mental Health
Due to their personality disorder, many narcissists have mental health issues. Such as depression and anxiety.
Many of these narcissists live in denial. And won’t seek help, because they can’t admit they’re anything less than perfect. Because they need to maintain their delusions of superiority.
On the flip side, other narcissists use mental health issues as an excuse for their abusive behaviours. And their addictions. And they often establish their “difficulties” at the start of a relationship, to pre-empt their abuse. Which leaves their sympathetic loved ones hanging on, taking poor treatment. Because they believe it’s not their fault.
These narcissists often flit between acting superior, and playing the victim. Depending on what’s convenient at the time. So they may boast about their physical or mental prowess once minute, then play the victim the next.
If You’re Ill
If you’re ill, don’t expect sympathy. The narcissist may leave you for dead if you have a serious illness. Because in their mind the relationship is to serve them. And if you’re no longer useful, then what’s the point?
If it’s not as serious, then the narcissist may play down your issues. And accuse you of being a hypochondriac. Even if they’re “ill” ten times more than you.
Narcissists hate it when someone close to them is ill. Because the narcissist sees them as commodities to be used. Like a car or a toaster. And as much as we like our cars and toasters, we get annoyed when they’re not working properly. And if they stop working altogether, we replace them.
To combat your illness, the narcissist might claim they’re more ill than you. So you can’t expect special treatment. Or they might act like there’s nothing wrong with you. Hoping that if they ignore your illness, it’ll go away.
Final Thoughts
When it comes to health, narcissists often swing from hero to victim. And as with most things in life, it rapidly changes, depending on what’s advantageous at the time.
Privately, narcissists over estimate their health. Just like they do with their abilities. Which can lead them to abuse their bodies and neglect themselves. Because they firmly believe they’re fantastic, no matter how unhealthy they are.
Narcissists are used to cheating their way through life. And often take this habit into their health care. But unfortunately, you can’t cheat health.
If they don’t go to the gym, pretending they do makes no difference. Hiding their drinking, smoking, or drug habits, also makes no difference. Because no matter how much they fool themselves or others, their health holds them accountable. And even narcissists can’t manipulate their way out of that.
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