MASK-WEARERS: Signs of Emotional Manipulators, Narcissists, or Unhealed People

Behavior

What it Feels Like: Hidden Message

Love bombs early (says “you’re my everything” fast)

Overwhelming, intense, dizzying

“I need to hook you fast before you see who I really am.”

Over-shares or demands deep intimacy instantly

Confusing mix of closeness and pressure

“I don’t respect your pace or safety—I just want your emotional energy.”

Always the victim in past relationships

Makes you feel sorry for them

“I never take accountability—I’ll do the same to you.”

Charm in public, cruelty in private

You feel gaslit; no one believes you

“I only perform love. I don’t embody it.”

Minimizes your feelings

You feel like your pain is “too much”

“Your emotions inconvenience me.”

Only shows up when it benefits them

One-sided conversations, affection, support

“Your needs aren’t real. Mine matter more.”

Inconsistent behavior

Anxiety, hypervigilance, walking on eggshells

“Keep guessing—I like control.”

Twists your words or forgets promises

You start doubting your own memory

“Confusion is a tactic to disarm you.”

Avoids real vulnerability

They dodge their own healing work

“I want your softness, but I won't show you mine.”