When Relationships Hurt - What Narcissism Is and Isn’t

The word narcissist gets used everywhere right now—but what does it actually mean?

In this episode, April and Brittany take a grounded, clinical look at narcissism and separate truth from trend. We unpack what narcissism really is, where it comes from, and how it shows up in everyday relationships. You’ll also learn how to distinguish between harmful patterns and normal human behavior, and what to do if you find yourself in a relationship that feels confusing, one-sided, or emotionally draining.

Whether you’ve wondered if someone in your life is narcissistic or you’re trying to better understand relationship dynamics, this conversation brings clarity, compassion, and practical guidance.

In This Episode, We Cover:

• Why the term narcissist is often misunderstood and overused
• A clear, clinical definition of narcissism
• The difference between everyday self-centered behavior and true narcissistic traits
• Common behaviors that get mislabeled as narcissism
• What narcissism can look like in real-life relationships
• Healthy ways to set boundaries when dealing with difficult behavior
• Whether meaningful change is possible
• What most people get wrong about narcissism

Key Takeaways:

• Not all hurtful or self-focused behavior is narcissism
• Narcissism exists on a spectrum, not as a simple label
• Understanding the pattern matters more than labeling the person
• Boundaries are about protecting your wellbeing, not changing someone else
• Clarity reduces confusion and empowers healthier choices

A Thought to Sit With:

Sometimes the most important question isn’t “Are they a narcissist?” but “How is this relationship impacting me and what do I need to be well?”

Resources & Support:

If this episode resonated with you, working with a therapist can help you process relationship patterns and build clarity and confidence in your boundaries.

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