Death, in general, is not a happy thought for most people because it means leaving loved ones and cherished things behind, as well as facing the unknown. When it comes to narcissists, however, their perspective on death is unique. They think about death often—but not for themselves. Instead, it is something they wish upon anyone who crosses their path or anyone they cannot control.
For themselves, death is a thought they avoid at all costs. It scares them because it represents something they cannot understand or control. When narcissists do speak about their own death, it is usually to manipulate others or to evoke guilt. That is the only time they willingly address the topic.
In many cases, narcissists do not even believe they will die. Their immense pride prevents them from accepting the reality that they, too, will face the same fate as all living things. If they do acknowledge death, they often assume they will somehow end up in a better place than everyone else—because, of course, they are “special.”
This is one reason why many narcissists seek out spiritual or religious beliefs that promise a comfortable afterlife. They use these beliefs as a band-aid to ease their fears. Just in case there is a higher power or afterlife, they align themselves with religious organizations or individuals who share this mindset, thinking that affiliation will safeguard them.
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Despite this, narcissists do not truly believe in a higher power. If they acknowledge the existence of a god, they often believe they can manipulate or deceive that god, just as they do with everyone else.
On the other hand, non-religious narcissists prefer the idea that there is nothing after death—they simply cease to exist. To them, dying without realizing it would be the ideal scenario. However, they firmly believe that death is something only their enemies should face. They are more than happy to drive others to the brink of suicide or even have people harmed, but they see themselves as exempt from such a fate.
Aging and sickness, both precursors to death, are also deeply feared by narcissists. They dread these experiences because they signify the loss of control and a confrontation with their mortality. Even minor illnesses are often exaggerated by narcissists, as they become paranoid that “this might be it.”
As they age, narcissists often complain incessantly, lamenting the loss of their youth and vitality. Death becomes their greatest fear, and their paranoia centers on this inevitability. While some may pretend to be lighthearted about it in the presence of others, in private, they are terrified of what lies beyond.
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Old age brings its own set of challenges, and many narcissists struggle to cope. Yet, what distracts them from their fears and brings them some measure of satisfaction in their final years is the ability to make someone else’s life miserable. Even on their deathbed, they remain unrepentant. Their pride prevents them from taking accountability or apologizing for their actions.
The fear and pride that define their lives are the same traits they carry with them to their final moments. To conclude, narcissists view death as an appropriate and necessary fate for others, but not for themselves. They believe life’s game should only end when they decide it’s time, completely on their terms.
Thankfully, life does not work that way, and narcissists must ultimately face the same fate as everyone else.
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