What he means is he will do a better job of manipulating you into thinking he is doing better.

He has to recognize that he has a problem and work towards actually fixing himself. He is this way probably from some trauma he’s experienced but it’s very serious stuff.

People he does not respect he Will confidently manipulate or think he’s manipulating them. They can choose their own reality if it gets too bad. They convince themselves about what is really happening and gaslight others to fit that reality. It comes from a place of disrespect. You are not respected.

There are better humans available.

Find people who can be trustworthy, earn your respect and can be vulnerable and highly empathetic and you can avoid these types of people.

Hugs to you. You may have dodged a bullet.