HEAL Module 1: Recognizing the Reality of Narcissistic Abuse

A healing program for survivors of narcissistic abuse and relational trauma. Module 1

What is narcissism?

From the perspective of clinical psychology and psychiatry, we understand narcissism through the lens of narcissistic personality disorder: a mental disorder listed in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th Edition (DSM-5). The DSM-5 classifies and describes all mental disorders known to date, just as specific medical textbooks classify and describe physical disorders. A mental disorder can be just as debilitating and significant as a physical disorder: some mental disorders can lead to the death of the affected person and to injury or death of those around them. That’s why it’s important to treat mental illnesses with the same seriousness with which we treat physical illnesses.

A person’s personality represents their way of thinking, feeling emotions, controlling their impulses, and behaving and relating to others. A healthy personality is one that allows a person to live functionally, effectively, and happily, without harming others or themselves. Healthy personalities vary greatly: from introvert to extrovert, from passive to assertive, from follower to leader, from shy to brave, and so on.