Being the scapegoat in a friend group where a covert narcissist is present can be an emotionally exhausting and isolating experience, especially if you are an empath and emotionally aware. Here are some common feelings and experiences you might encounter:
Constant Emotional Turmoil: The covert narcissist may manipulate and gaslight you, making you doubt your perceptions and feelings. This can lead to a constant state of emotional turmoil, as you question your reality and feel invalidated.
Isolation and Alienation: As the scapegoat, you may find that the rest of the friend group sides with the narcissist, even when you are right or have valid concerns. This can leave you feeling isolated and alienated, as your voice and feelings are disregarded.
Emotional Exhaustion: Dealing with the covert narcissist's manipulative tactics and defending yourself repeatedly can be emotionally draining. It may lead to feelings of fatigue and emotional exhaustion over time.
Doubting Yourself: The covert narcissist may project their insecurities onto you, causing you to doubt your abilities and worth. This can erode your self-confidence and self-esteem.
Walking on Eggshells: In an effort to avoid conflict with the narcissist, you might find yourself walking on eggshells around them, carefully choosing your words and actions. This can create a constant state of anxiety and fear of the narcissist's reactions.
Feeling Unseen and Unheard: Despite being emotionally aware and empathetic, your insights and emotions might be dismissed or ignored by the friend group, leaving you feeling unseen and unheard.
Self-Blame: The covert narcissist may shift blame onto you, making you feel responsible for any issues within the friend group. This can lead to feelings of guilt and self-blame, even when you are not at fault.
Struggling to Maintain Boundaries: Narcissists often push boundaries and disrespect personal space. As an empath, you may struggle to maintain healthy boundaries with the narcissist, making it difficult to protect yourself from their manipulations.
Long-Term Effects: Being in such a toxic dynamic can have long-term effects on your mental and emotional well-being. It may lead to anxiety, depression, or even post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) if the situation is severe and ongoing.
In such situations, it's essential to prioritize your well-being and consider setting boundaries or seeking support from friends or professional counselors who understand narcissistic dynamics. Remember that the narcissist's behavior is not a reflection of your worth, and seeking distance from toxic relationships is crucial for your emotional health.