Energy Vampires: How to Identify and Protect Yourself

We've all been there: You're minding your own business, going about your day, when you suddenly feel exhausted for no reason. You might even get a headache or feel dizzy. If this happens to you on a regular basis, chances are you're being drained by an energy vampire.

Energy vampires are people who consciously or unconsciously drain others of their energy. They might do this because they're feeling low themselves and need a quick pick-me-up, or because they enjoy feeling powerful at the expense of others. Whatever the reason, it's important to be able to identify energy vampires so you can protect yourself from them.


How to Identify an Energy Vampire
There are several warning signs that you might be dealing with an energy vampire:

You feel exhausted after spending time with someone, even if you haven't exerted yourself physically.
You feel like you need to take a shower after spending time with someone.
You feel irritable or anxious after spending time with someone.
You find yourself more easily annoyed by people after spending time with someone.
You have a hard time concentrating or thinking clearly after spending time with someone.
If you notice any of these warning signs, it's important to take action to protect yourself from the energy vampire in question.

How to Protect Yourself from Energy Vampires
There are several steps you can take to protect yourself from energy vampires:

Limit your time around them: This is probably the most important thing you can do. The less time you spend around an energy vampire, the less they'll be able to drain you. If possible, avoid them altogether. But if that's not possible, limit your interactions to short periods of time. And make sure to take some time for yourself afterwards to relax and recharge.
Set boundaries: It's important to set boundaries with energy vampires so they know that they can't just take and take without giving anything back. When interacting with them, be clear about what you will and won't tolerate. For example, you might say something like, "I'm happy to listen to your problems, but I don't want to be interrupted while I'm talking."
Focus on your own needs: Energy vampires will often try to make everything about them. So it's important that you focus on your own needs rather than theirs. This doesn't mean being rude or insensitive—just assertive about what YOU need from the interaction.


Dealing with energy vampires can be draining—literally! But by taking steps to protect yourself, you can minimize the impact they have on your life and your energy levels. Remember: Boundaries are key! And if all else fails, just walk away—the best way to deal with an energy vampire is often simply to distance yourself from them as much as possible.