Narcissist Behavior Q&A

⚠️ They threaten to kill or hurt me

You don't need to work out whether they mean it. A specific threat is a danger signal that calls for an immediate response.

The short answer

You don't have to figure out whether they mean it. Check first whether there's a real risk they'll show up or hurt you.

When this happens, try this

  • Keep the threatening messages and call recordings somewhere safe. But if being caught saving them would put you in danger, getting to safety comes before the records.
  • If there's a risk they'll show up or hurt you now, don't hesitate — call 911.

Scenes like this

  • They said they know where you live and will come find you.
  • They threatened harm, mentioning a weapon, a car, or people you know.

How to tell the difference

Even framed as a joke, words that describe hurting you in specific terms are a danger signal.

Official help resources

United States resources · Contact numbers and pages verified in August 2026.

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