In the context of narcissism, the term "new supply" refers to a new source of attention, admiration, or validation that a narcissistic individual seeks after discarding or ending a previous relationship. "Covert narcissism" refers to a form of narcissistic personality disorder where the individual's narcissistic tendencies are not as overt or apparent as in the more classic or grandiose form.
Whether a covert narcissist always has a new supply upon discard can vary based on individual circumstances and personality traits. Here are a few possible scenarios:
Seeking Continuous Validation: Many narcissists, both overt and covert, rely on external validation to maintain their sense of self-worth. After discarding a previous partner or source of admiration, they may actively seek out a new person to provide that validation.
Fear of Abandonment: Some covert narcissists have an intense fear of being alone or abandoned. To avoid feelings of emptiness or worthlessness, they might quickly move on to a new relationship or new sources of attention to fill the void left by the previous one.
Serial Monogamy: Covert narcissists may engage in serial monogamy, continuously moving from one romantic relationship to another. They seek the excitement of a new relationship and the initial admiration that comes with it.
Parallel Relationships: Some covert narcissists may overlap relationships, maintaining multiple sources of validation simultaneously. They might not fully discard the previous partner before engaging with someone new.
Retreat and Isolation: Not all covert narcissists immediately seek new supply upon discard. Some may retreat or isolate themselves temporarily to nurse their wounded ego or avoid facing potential rejection.
Coping Strategies: Covert narcissists may use various coping mechanisms after a discard, including self-pity, self-loathing, or finding other ways to boost their self-esteem, such as through work accomplishments or hobbies.
It's essential to remember that personality disorders, including narcissistic personality disorder, exist on a spectrum, and individuals may display a mix of traits. Additionally, every person's behavior is unique, and not all covert narcissists will follow the same patterns. Some may display more traditional narcissistic behaviors, while others may not seek new supply as overtly.
If you are dealing with someone who exhibits narcissistic traits and are struggling with the impact of their behavior, seeking support from a mental health professional can be helpful. They can provide guidance on coping strategies and help you navigate any emotional challenges that may arise.