Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD) has more detrimental effects on the loved ones of the person who is actually suffering from it. This condition is described as Narcissistic abuse which leaves deep emotional scars in the personality of the person who is facing it. Therefore, therapists dealing with narcissism treatments cases are always considerate about the mental well-being of the people surrounding the patient as they are having a lasting impact on their mental health by narcissistic abuse. If you are also on the journey of healing from this abuse, this blog has something valuable for you. Let’s get started to learn more.
Understanding the Impact of Narcissistic Abuse on Mental Health
Narcissistic abuse is a significant traumatic experience that affects the quality of life of victims. The constant manipulation and emotional exploitation by NPD patients shatter the self-confidence of the victim leading to severe consequences like lack of self-believe, self-love, and trust issues. In harsh scenarios, it can also lead to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Therefore, it is really important to spot the symptoms like constant procrastination, avoidance behavior, and nightmares in your personality and seek assistance. Moreover, the impacts of narcissistic abuse are not limited to the mental health of the sufferer. Gradually, it starts to affect the physical health of the victim and the lives of the people around.
It is a contagious trauma that spreads throughout society if not managed at the right time. You will see the victims facing trust issues in their interpersonal relationships, poor decision-making, and in worst cases, a life-long suffering with chronic health issues. So, it is important to go for the proper solutions, like therapies and support, promptly to initiate recovery before it becomes too hard to mend.
How to Heal from Narcissistic Abuse?
This healing journey is complex as it involves a strategic process to treat all mental, physical, and psychological scars left by the abusers. If you are all set to go for it, here is how to approach it efficiently.
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Embrace Self-Love
This journey begins with reclaiming your self-worth which is only possible if you start to embrace self-love. The foundation of the healing process is accepting you as you are, regardless of the manipulation you have faced in a toxic relationship. Involve yourself in self-nurturing activities like exercises, a balanced diet, or hobbies that will bring back joy to your life and get it on the track of normalcy and stability. Self-love is a reminder of one’s worth and a step to regain self-confidence. Prioritize it.
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Consult Therapists
Most victims continue to suffer throughout their lives as they are unable to find a safe place to process their emotions and thoughts. Eventually, it makes their lives extremely difficult. Trust me. You don’t have to suffer from loneliness. A therapist can not only provide you with a safe place to initiate your emotional healing and help you to learn some effective therapies like DBT to rebuild your personality. The little push my professionals can help you feel empowered while letting you regain control of your mind.
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Build a Support System
Your support system can be your friends, family, or even communities in the same endeavors as yours. These people, who love and believe in you, can give you emotional validation and encourage you to thrive throughout your recovery journey. Gradually, you will see yourself letting go of the self-doubts instilled by the abuser due to the constant reassurance of your self-worth by your support system. Keeping yourself surrounded by trusted individuals can alleviate the urge to adopt avoidance behavior, moving you towards a fulfilling life.
Signs You Are Healing from a Narcissistic Abuse
Though the healing from Narcissistic Abuse is a different journey for each sufferer, some subtle signs indicate that you are going on the right path. Let’s have a look at the key indicators of a successful healing journey.
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Rebuilding Self-Esteem
The significant difference a person faces in his/her life while on a healing journey from Narcissistic abuse is rebuilding self-confidence. In a toxic relationship, whether a romantic one, with your parents, or with others, the victim starts doubting their self-worth and decision-making capability. So, they seek constant validation from the abuser in whatever they do. Recovering from it means breaking the cycle, reaffirming your capability, and voicing your opinions.
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Learning to Set Boundaries
Healthy boundaries are the first guard against negativity in your life. They mean learning to say “No” without feeling sorry for expressing your true self. Effective boundaries are the essence of a balanced and healthy relationship, enabling you to hold onto your personality without damaging it from emotional and psychological abuse. A therapist can help you reinforce some tactics for learning and implementing certain boundaries, where you feel empowered and growing.
Final Words
Narcissistic Abuse overshadows your personality and eliminates joy from your life. However, you can regain control of your life by reclaiming the missing parts of your personality. You need to give the things you have abandoned in a toxic relationship a way back into your life and indulge yourself in the things that make you truly happy. Start surrounding yourself with positive people and recover your autonomy.
