How narcissists EXPLOIT YOU when you need them most

What happens when the only person you can turn to is the same person who has hurt you? In moments of crisis, narcissists often twist your need for help into another chance to manipulate, control, and shame you. In this video, Dr. Ramani explains why relying on a narcissist feels so depleting—and how to stay strategic when you have no choice but to depend on them.

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DISCLAIMER: THIS INFORMATION IS FOR EDUCATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND IS NOT INTENDED TO BE A SUBSTITUTE FOR CLINICAL CARE. PLEASE CONSULT A HEALTH CARE PROVIDER FOR GUIDANCE SPECIFIC TO YOUR CASE. THIS VIDEO DISCUSSES NARCISSISM IN GENERAL.

THE VIDEO DOES NOT REFER TO ANY SPECIFIC PERSON, AND SHOULD NOT BE USED TO REFER TO ANY SPECIFIC PERSON, AS HAVING NARCISSISM. PERMISSION IS NOT GRANTED TO LINK TO OR REPOST THIS VIDEO, ESPECIALLY TO SUPPORT AN ALLEGATION THAT THE MAKERS OF THIS VIDEO BELIEVE, OR SUPPORT A CLAIM, THAT A SPECIFIC PERSON IS A NARCISSIST. THAT WOULD BE AN UNAUTHORIZED MISUSE OF THE VIDEO AND THE INFORMATION FEATURED IN IT.

Andrew McLaurin
 

  • @JustMe-n9u8c says:

    People always ask why you didn’t just leave? like it’s easier said than done. They never see how complicated it really is.

  • @tbaade1 says:

    This video really speaks to what victims go through by others around them. Thank you!

  • @catimonster says:

    So true, I have a number of friends who choose to diminish what I went through because they didn’t experience that from the abusive person or because they like them more. To that I say “bye bye” and “good riddance”.

    • @LaMamaStar says:

      Pity party.

    • @sparkygump says:

      @@LaMamaStar do enjoy being a jerk? is this the reason you come here to feel powerful by negating other people. How pathetic.

    • @debbylee6329 says:

      ​@@LaMamaStarwhy be so negative when saying bye bye to certain people? It’s a positive action when healing and then it becomes a part of a healthier life.

    • @KathrynMSaria says:

      This. Those aren’t friends. I made the mistake of trusting someone like that—then found out the hard way that they’re highly narcissistic themselves.

    • @sparkygump says:

      ​@@LaMamaStarask yourself why you enjoy being a jerk? Then try growing a soul.

  • @karmaclanton5544 says:

    I had a major crisis in my life. It was the turning point. It drove me out. I needed them they left of a trip to Colorado. A trip we were supposed to go on together. I packed my things and left. Went no contact.

  • @sparkygump says:

    Daddy gloated so much whenever I needed him, he ended up training me to NEVER need him.

    • @simplyyyfab_u_lous_3266 says:

      Sadly you are not alone, it hurts and confuses one…however I think in the long run, it’s a great wake up call. I am no longer expecting anything from mine anymore.

  • @nancyscott-f2g says:

    Thank you! Thank you! That’s exactly what I’m going through. Long story, but my mom is a narcissist. Now I si the patterns.

  • @REBEKAHJOHNSON-lh6xh says:

    The devil you know is sometimes better (more comfortable) than the devil you don’t.

  • @kkryz says:

    Narcissists are another add-on on top of the crisis. Hug.

  • @gamelion3657 says:

    I think that is part of what we see happening nationally. Trying to force a LOT of people into needing help from their abusers.

  • @anitaallen3163 says:

    I have an inside view of what you are saying and I too still have to rely on narcissistic toxic family and friends, and it is sucks, however there is quite a few of them I have never let back in my life, narcissists are everywhere though, you are helping so many people doctor, thank you.

  • @ai172 says:

    And this is why I stopped sharing my experiences with anyone except with understanding, supportive forums such as these ❤ On that note, a very big thank you to all of you who simply listen and validate my experiences ❤

  • Anonymous says:

    I experienced this and overcame it. NC was essential, in my case.
    Sending prayers to anyone going through this… the light at the end of the tunnel is not a dumpster fire, I promise.

  • @DanielLucas-l3p says:

    My narc parents exploited every vulnerable situation I was in when I needed comfort, love, and understanding. They don’t have empathy or care about my well being.

    • @middleway1704 says:

      I am in that situation as I type this. I’m so sorry this happened to you. These creatures really are human shaped husks. I’m planning my escape.

    • @DanielLucas-l3p says:

      ​@@middleway1704I hope you can escape the toxic dynamic. I only escaped when I met my wife and she helped me see a different perspective. Then I had a daughter and realized that my family comes first and my mother didn’t like that at all bc she knew her control was slipping. But she’s the type that withdraws and runs away. So it worked out but I’m damaged.

    • @mariay.279 says:

      So sori. U didnt deserve it.

    • @snowqueen24 says:

      Neither do my narcissistic parents. You’re not alone.🙁

  • @marysisak2359 says:

    I learned early on that the only thing I could count on about my family was that I could not count on them.

  • @SG-ce7ji says:

    Dr Ramani,
    I am soo grateful for all the work you do. You open up my eyes. I have been in narsistic abuse victim for 30 years. I am in extreme agony. I lost my father a week ago. My husband is giving me and my daughter who is 26 yrs old silent treatment since we heard the news from back home. I couldn’t go to his funeral. My pain is quadrupled with his behavior. My daughter and I are sooo confused and hurt. We don’t understand this behavior. I know I need to leave but I have a teenage son who I can’t financially support since I am on disability. My monthly pay won’t even cover half the rent today. We don’t want to break this silent ask closures or explanation. We know he will blame shift and make us regret asking. I am hosting my guest who come for condolences by myself and can’t explain the situation to people. Please guide us so we can manage this pain❤❤❤🙏🙏🙏🙏

    • @newlywed01 says:

      I’m sorry, this is awful. Stay strong and try to take care and focus on yourself and the good people around you 🙏🏻

  • @moniquejackson7741 says:

    So Brilliant. Communicating with Narcissists on any level is always difficult and dehumanizing. Thank you so much for showing there are multiple ways to handle these situations, and that there is absolutely NO REASON to kick yourself over any of them. The rules you would apply with normal, empathic people DO NOT apply with Narcissists.

  • @humanbeing2804 says:

    Every word so true and so sad.💔

    A friend of mine had been blaming herself for having lost her love and gratitude to her husband who turned out a classic narc. He alone provides for their 2-kids-family. So my friend felt guilty for having to spend his money. Until a psychologist said to her:
    “Didn’t you ever think that it’s actually YOUR money – just coming to you through his hands?” Because before marriage my friend could provide for herself all well. And this phrase changed her.
    Indeed, narcs use their victims as their own energy ressource giving back just tiny scrumbles. If at all. So, looking at the issue from that point of view, – it’s not the victim who owes something to the narc. It’s the narc who pays some of his HUGE debt to his ressource back.
    So, dear narc victims, stop blaming youself for trying to survive – you’re just good persons in bad circumstances.❤❤❤

  • @toastedmarshmellow704 says:

    Some captors demand that you take care of them emotionally, too.

  • @f.frederickskitty2910 says:

    Hugs to all my brothers and sisters who have ever been abused by these soulless demons. You are not alone. Just like all bullies they back down when we eventually take back what is ours: control of our own narrative. Even if you aren’t in a place to escape yet I see you and your struggles are valid. You are important and beautiful. I’m routing for you! Mama hugs from afar. ❤

  • @Narc101BookAuthor says:

    Most Narcs exploit moments of vulnerability, using crisis as leverage rather than offering genuine care. Narc partners may appear helpful—but only when it serves their interests. If your survival ensures their comfort or control, they might drive you to the doctor during a bout of illness. But once your value as a source of supply diminishes—or a new supply is secured—the façade crumbles. Survivors’ stories are filled with accounts of driving themselves to the ER, surgery, or chemo, abandoned at the very moments they needed support most.

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