10 Ways Narcissist Men Make You Feel Crazy

Ever felt like you’re in a relationship with a human hall of mirrors? Every time you turn around, reality seems warped. You know what you saw, you know what you heard, but somehow, you’re left doubting your own sanity.

Congratulations, you may be dealing with a narcissist. Grab a cuppa, take a deep breath, and let’s put that madness under a microscope.

1. Gaslighting Gymnastics

Ever tried to argue with someone who can rewrite history with the confidence of a seasoned politician? Narcissist men have a particular flair for denying things they just said (or did) five minutes ago.

Insist you saw those texts on his phone? Suddenly, you’re the one with the overactive imagination. You could have video proof, and he’d swear it’s CGI.

This isn’t just lying; it’s Olympic-level gaslighting. The longer it goes on, the more you question your memory, your perception, and, eventually, your grip on reality.

Write stuff down. Screenshot receipts. Hide a tiny notepad in your knickers if you must.

2. The Blame Game (And You’re Always ‘It’)

Narcissist men have never met a problem they couldn’t pin on someone else, preferably the person who loves them most.

Did he forget your anniversary? Clearly, your calendar skills are lacking. Did he snap at you after work? That’s because you’re always nagging (by, you know, existing).

Somehow, every conflict circles back to your supposed flaws, leaving you apologizing for things you didn’t even know you did. If you start every sentence with “I’m sorry” and you’re not Canadian, take note.

3. Love Bombing, Then Withdrawing

Picture this: one week, you’re the queen of his world. Pet names, gifts, rooftop declarations of love that would put Romeo to shame. Next week, he’s MIA, emotionally distant, and you’re left wondering what you did wrong.

This whiplash isn’t romance; it’s classic narcissistic manipulation. The inconsistency keeps you off balance, desperate to get back into his good graces. It’s so effective, cult leaders take notes.

4. The Moving Goalposts Trick

Just when you think you’ve finally figured out what he wants—kaboom! The goalposts shift. Now you’re suddenly “too sensitive,” “not fun anymore,” or “always overreacting.”

Yesterday, cooking dinner every night was an act of devotion. Today, it’s “smothering.”

This strategy means you’re always striving for approval, but that approval is as slippery as a greased pig at a county fair. Spoiler: you’ll never quite reach it, and that’s by design.

5. Minimizing Your Achievements

Run a marathon? “Anyone can do that.” Nailed a big project at work? “Must not have been that hard.” Narcissist men are allergic to genuine praise, unless it’s directed at them.

Your accomplishments get brushed aside, twisted, or even mocked.

It’s a subtle erosion, but over time, your confidence can start to slip through the cracks. Next time you ace something, celebrate yourself—preferably somewhere he can’t find the confetti.

6. Public Charm, Private Criticism

Your friends and family think he’s Prince Charming. He flashes that dazzling smile, tells self-deprecating jokes, and offers to help your mum with her shopping.

Meanwhile, at home, he’s more Jekyll than Hyde—critical, cold, and dismissive.

This Dr. Charming/Mr. Condescending routine leaves you feeling isolated. Who would believe you? That’s the point. He’s crafted an alibi with dimples.

7. Emotional Withholding as Punishment

Upset him? Disagree with his grand master plan (like where to put the TV remote)? Suddenly, affection is pulled away like a toddler’s blankie. No cuddles, no kind words, not even a raised eyebrow in your direction.

This silent treatment makes you crave his approval and warmth, turning you into an emotional contortionist. Don’t let him dictate your emotional thermostat. Invest in a weighted blanket, or better yet, a dog.

8. Triangulation: The Unwelcome Third Wheel

Ever noticed how he always brings someone else into your arguments, real or imaginary? “Even Sarah at work says you’re too sensitive.” “My mum agrees—you’re overreacting.”

These mysterious “others” serve one purpose: to make you doubt your feelings.

Before you know it, you’re not just fighting him—you’re fighting a Greek chorus of judgment. Next time he tries this, ask to see the footnotes.

9. Turning Vulnerabilities Into Ammunition

Share something close to your heart—your childhood fears, work insecurities, the time you wet yourself at Brownies—and watch as he stores that intel for later.

When tensions flare, out comes your deepest secret, weaponized for maximum impact.

True intimacy requires trust. Narcissist men use it as leverage, leaving you wary of ever opening up again. Don’t hand them the playbook. Save your soft bits for the people who love you gently.

10. Projecting Their Flaws Onto You

If you’re suddenly being accused of things so outlandish you’re considering installing nanny cams on yourself, you’ve entered the world of projection.

Cheating? Lying? Selfishness? All accusations hurled your way, while he’s off having a cozy pint with his own issues.

It’s classic smoke and mirrors. Suddenly, you’re scrambling to defend yourself instead of holding him accountable. The trick is to stop playing defense. Call time on the blame Olympics.

You Are Not Losing the Plot

If any of these sound uncomfortably familiar, welcome to the reality club—you’re not losing it, and you’re certainly not alone. The truth is, narcissist men are masters at twisting reality into pretzels and convincing you that you’re the problem.

The antidote? Boundaries, support, and a dash of gallows humor. Refuse to accept reality as he defines it. Trust your instincts.

Find your people—the ones who believe you, back you, and remind you you’re not crazy, just fed up.

And if all else fails? There’s always gin, therapy, and group chats full of memes about toxic exes. Works a treat.