A phrase that has been gaining popularity on social media is “main character syndrome.” This term describes individuals who move through life as if their experiences, emotions, and events are more significant than anyone else’s. They often behave as though they are of movie star quality, believing that everyone is excessively interested in their lives. They may have main character syndrome.
Renewal Oasis understands how an individual’s personality can become distorted, leading them to view things through an unrealistic lens that inflates their self-esteem. This can cause tremendous damage to their relationships with partners, family, friends, and co-workers. We offer quality treatment for main character syndrome with a choice of both outpatient and residential care.
What is Main Character Syndrome?
Main character syndrome is a term that describes someone who always sees themselves as the center of a story, similar to the star character in a television series or book. They frequently discuss themselves and their emotions and experiences. If the subject goes to someone else, they are experts at bringing it back to themselves. They often do not know they are doing it or they feel like their lives are so interesting that everyone wants constant updates on their lives. This can include verbal communication, texts, and social media updates.
What are the Causes?
A person can develop main character syndrome for different reasons. It often stems from having low self-esteem, insecurity or uncertainty about who the person is, and anxiety. A person dealing with these issues may put on airs to try to convince both themselves and others that they are actually quite interesting and deserve constant attention. This sort of behavior has a lot in common with narcissism, and it can strain any relationship.
What to do if Main Character Syndrome is Negatively Affecting a Relationship
It’s important to set boundaries so that the person with main character syndrome understands what lines not to cross. As well, if they do cross the lines, their partner has the right to feel upset and unheard. Couples counseling can also help both partners feel they are being treated equally and relax some of the tension between them.
Is There Treatment or Therapy for Main Character Syndrome?
While no single therapy treats main character syndrome, several can aid in healing. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) helps individuals identify and change unrealistic thought patterns and beliefs, promoting forward progress in life. An assessment by a skilled therapist can reveal any underlying issues that contribute to a person having main character syndrome. These include anxiety, depression, and unresolved issues related to trauma.
Group therapy can teach the individual to share the spotlight and not always feel they have to be the focus. The peer support of group therapy helps people redefine themselves and learn the give and take of talking and listening to others.
Many therapists recommend a person write in a journal to uncover their thoughts and feelings without worrying about what others might think. The therapist may also recommend the person go on a social media detox. Spending 30 days away from obsessive scrolling can help a person relax and avoid chasing false perfection.
Contact Renewal Oasis Behavioral Health About Our Treatment Options
Being around someone with main character syndrome can be taxing. It tests even the strongest of partnerships, friendships, and interactions with people at work. If you know someone who has this condition, the good news is that it’s treatable. The right combination of therapies can help a person come to terms with their behaviors and self-image and begin to see themselves more realistically. Therapists can help them develop healthy self-esteem without feeling like they have to be the star of every scene.
Renewal Oasis offers structured treatment for main character syndrome in both our residential and outpatient facilities. Contact us to find out how we can help you or someone you love pivot and take on life with a new way of seeing yourself and others.
