From my personal experience, dealing with a covert narcissist who uses triangulation can be incredibly harmful to your emotional wellbeing. They often manipulate situations by involving a third party to create tension or confusion, all while maintaining an appearance of innocence. What makes this even more dangerous is their deep-seated need to control and dominate, lurking behind subtle behaviors that are easy to overlook. If you find yourself caught in this kind of dynamic, it’s important to recognize that these individuals often genuinely believe they are justified in their actions because their ego drives them to maintain power in the relationship. The secret animosity they carry can poison interactions and leave you feeling isolated or doubting your own perceptions. One crucial step I’ve learned is to minimize or completely cut ties when possible, especially if you have no strong personal or emotional ties to them. Protecting your mental health means setting clear boundaries and not engaging in their attempts to create divisiveness. In cases where cutting off contact isn’t immediately feasible, keeping interactions limited and emotionally detached can reduce their influence. Understanding these tactics empowers you to respond more confidently rather than feeling trapped. Remember, recognizing triangulation, especially from a covert narcissist, is the first step in reclaiming your peace of mind and safety in social or familial relationships.