What is mythomania and how to deal with pathological liars?

The thought of the main character of the swindler in the movie “The Talented Mr. Ripley” is interrupted by these words: “If I could erase everything, including myself, starting from that stranger’s coat…” Perhaps it is a rare person who does not imagine himself in someone else’s place – more successful, beautiful, rich and happy. And those who grew up in cramped conditions and were ashamed of their past are especially prone to showing off, trying to please people at all costs. And sometimes the illusion of a beautiful life becomes more important than life itself.

These people, who are rejected and wounded, do not accept their own identity deep down and are ready to wear any mask to protect themselves from the outside world. But as is often the case, once you step on this path, it is difficult to leave. And the best way to justify yourself is to believe your own lies, to merge with them, to become part of the myth created about yourself. At some point, the victim turns into a predator who draws not only himself but also others into his funnel. How to deal with a pathological liar?

Psychologist Khadizhat Shabueva answered this question exclusively for The Fashion Vibes. She told us what mythomania is, how to recognize a pathological liar, whether this personality disorder can be treated and, of course, how to protect ourselves.

Khadizhat Shabueva, psychologist

What is mythomania or hysterical fantasy?

Mythomania or hysterical fantasy is a term that describes not only the ability to “embellish” a story, but also the pathological tendency to lies and inventions that become part of a person’s life. You’ve probably met such people: they tell incredible stories in which they are heroes, witnesses of unusual events or possess unique information.

Mythomaniacs are quite often represented in culture. Remember the famous swindler Frank Abagnale, who became the prototype of the main character in the movie “Catch Me If You Can,” played by Leonardo DiCaprio. Abagnale was a real master of deception: he pretended to be a pilot, a doctor, and a lawyer. He can be considered a classic mythomaniac who lived in a world full of his own fantasies and lies.

Another example is the character Barney Stinson on How I Met Your Mother. His constant stories of incredible feats and adventures often border on credibility, but they serve one purpose: to impress others. Barney is certainly not a pathological liar in the medical sense, but his habit of exaggeration and fantasy clearly illustrates how mythomania can manifest itself in everyday life.

The fact is that mythomania is not just a habit of lying, but a psychological disorder associated with deeply ingrained personality problems. Such people cannot do otherwise: for them, lying becomes a way to adapt and survive in society. Psychologists associate mythomania with low self-esteem and the need for recognition and significance. Lying allows mythomaniacs to feel better, at least for a short time.

Why do people become mythomaniacs?

The causes can be different: from childhood trauma to brain disorders. Some studies suggest that mythomaniacs may have altered brain structure, especially in areas related to impulse control and social behavior.

One example is Ben Stiller’s character in The Amazing Life of Walter Mitty. Walter the Mythomaniac constantly fantasizes about incredible adventures that will help him escape from boring reality.

Symptoms of mythomania are diverse. People with this disorder can tell fantastic stories in which they play the leading roles. These can be stories of heroic deeds, unique encounters, or possession of rare skills and knowledge. Mythomaniacs are often so convinced of their fantasies that it is almost impossible to catch them lying. For example, Florence Foster Jenkins, the rich daughter of an industrialist, considered herself a brilliant opera singer, despite her lack of vocal talent and hearing. She organized musical evenings with her own money, which were attended by all the elite. Everyone laughed at her behind her back, and at the same time, because of her wealth, connections, and status, she did not risk telling her the truth. Florence Jenkins was so famous that she became the prototype of the character Catherine Frome in the film Margarita (2015) and the biopic Prima Donna (2016), starring Meryl Streep.

Another true story took place in France in the 1990s and involved Jean-Claude Romande, a pathological liar who lived a double life for almost twenty years, deceiving everyone around him, including his family and friends. Romand posed as a successful doctor and researcher working for prestigious institutions such as the World Health Organization (WHO). Those close to him believed that he commuted to work every day and conducted important medical research. In reality, Romand had no career. He spent all his “working days” hiding in the woods and reading WHO brochures to support his myth. Romand used fraudulent schemes to maintain a high standard of living, borrowing money from friends and relatives under the pretense of profitable investments. He successfully deceived everyone until his scheme began to fall apart due to mounting debts and the suspicions of others.

How to recognize a pathological liar?

It is not so easy to recognize a mythomaniac. They weave their web skillfully and often have a charm that attracts people. However, there are several signs that can reveal the presence of a mythomaniac.

— Incredible stories. If someone constantly tells stories that seem too good to be true, it could be a sign.

— Contradictions. Listen carefully. Mythomaniacs often get confused in their stories, adding new details or changing old ones.

— The need for recognition. These people often seek approval and admiration, using their fantasies to achieve this goal.

How to deal with pathological liars and is it possible to help them?

Mythomania is a complex psychological disorder that requires professional intervention. If your relative or new acquaintance is prone to mythomania, it is important to remember that this is not just a bad habit, but a serious psychological condition that requires understanding and, possibly, professional help. Be careful and remember that behind bright stories, deep personal dramas can hide.

Recommendations for your loved ones:

— Please be patient and understanding. Realize that mythomania is not just a bad habit, but a serious illness. Do not blame the person, try to understand his problems and the reasons for lying.

— Keep Calm. Attempts to catch a mythomaniac in a lie often fail and can lead to confrontation. Instead, focus on support and motivation for treatment.

— Encourage honesty. Create an atmosphere where people feel safe telling the truth. Reward even the slightest sign of honesty.

What are the treatments for mythomania?

Psychotherapy

The main method of treating mythomania is psychotherapy. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) helps patients understand the reasons for their lies and learn to cope with them. During the sessions, the therapist works on developing self-control skills and improving self-esteem.

Medication

In some cases, if mythomania is associated with other mental disorders such as depression or anxiety disorders, antidepressants or anxiolytics may be prescribed. However, medications are used in conjunction with psychotherapy and are not the primary treatment.

Group therapy

Attending group therapy can be helpful as it allows patients to share their problems and get support from others who have similar difficulties. This helps to reduce feelings of isolation and shame.

Education and personal development

People with mythomania can use self-help programs and educational resources to better understand their problems and learn how to control their impulses.

Mythomania is a complex and little-studied disease. Such people live in a fantasy world and use lies as a way to cope with reality. However, the help of qualified professionals and the support of loved ones still make it possible to overcome it.