Presented by BetterHelp.
Narcissistic abuse is a destructive form of mistreatment that’s rooted in narcissistic behaviors. While we’re all capable of causing harm when we’re angry, narcissists take abuse to another level.
And while not everyone with narcissistic traits is abusive, those who are can do tremendous emotional, psychological and even physical harm to others.
Let’s explore everything that narcissistic abuse entails – its signs, its impact and avenues for seeking assistance.
Defining Narcissistic Abuse
People with Narcissistic Personality Disorder often show personality traits including a need for admiration, a tendency toward aggression, and a lack of empathy.
Narcissistic abuse shows up in many different forms, including verbal assaults, physical violence, passive-aggressive tactics, or manipulative behaviors. According to some studies, such behavior can be triggered by perceived challenges to the abuser’s authority or fear of abandonment.
Keep in mind that narcissistic abuse can be physical, sexual, emotional, mental, financial and/or spiritual in nature. And a narcissist will rarely, if ever, take responsibility for their own behavior – instead, they will deny any wrongdoing and intensify the abuse by blaming the victim.
The overall goal of narcissistic abuse is power. The abuser’s goal is to increase their own level of control and authority within the relationship, while creating doubt, shame and dependency in their partner. They need to feel superior so they can avoid their own hidden feelings of inferiority.
Recognizing the Signs of Narcissistic Abuse
Identifying narcissistic abuse can be a challenge – abusers often initially present themselves as charming and supportive. However, there are subtle signs that may indicate you’re experiencing narcissistic abuse.
Here are some things to look for if you suspect you’re being abused by a narcissist:
Feelings of Worthlessness: Abusers with NPD may erode your self-esteem by constantly comparing you to others and belittling your accomplishments.
Loss of Identity: Victims may find themselves altering their identity to please the abuser, leading to a loss of self-recognition and abandonment of personal values.
Questioning Reality: Gaslighting, a common element of narcissistic abuse, can cause you to doubt your feelings and experiences, making it difficult to recognize and define the abuse.
Isolation: Abusers may isolate you from friends and family, making you more reliant on them and less likely to seek support from outside the relationship.
Involving Others: To maintain their image, abusers may spread rumors or involve others in your relationship conflicts, which can intensify the victim’s distress.
Physical Symptoms: The stress of narcissistic abuse can show up in physical symptoms like changes in appetite, difficulty sleeping and even muscle aches.
Long-Term Effects of Narcissistic Abuse
Narcissistic abuse can have dramatic and lasting effects on a partner’s mental and physical health, comparable to those of physical violence.
Long-term consequences may include depression, anxiety, PTSD, a low sense of self-worth, chronic pain, feelings of powerlessness and shame. Plus – past experiences of narcissistic abuse can influence future relationships, leading to feelings of inadequacy and mistrust.
If children are involved in your relationship, this can be especially true. In fact, children raised by narcissistic parents may experience overvaluation, aggression or neglect, potentially leading to their developing =narcissistic traits themselves.
In addition, exposure to narcissistic abuse within a family can result in long-lasting emotional scars and developmental issues, impacting a child’s self-esteem and interpersonal relationships.
If you’re in a situation where you or your child(ren) are experiencing narcissistic abuse, it’s time to get out.
Seeking Help and Recovery
Recovery from narcissistic abuse is a journey that often takes professional assistance and a supportive network. Strategies for recovery include educating yourself about narcissistic behavior, seeking support groups, consulting with mental health professionals, practicing self-care and accessing resources – such as the National Domestic Violence Hotline.
While recovery may be challenging, it is possible with dedication, resilience and the right support system. Learn more about how professional therapy may help: https://www.betterhelp.com/advice/therapy/what-is-trauma-focused-cognitive-behavioral-therapy/.
If you’re experiencing any of the signs of narcissistic abuse mentioned here, there are immediate and positive steps you can take to prioritize your well-being and begin the healing process. Here’s how:
- Exit the Relationship: Develop a safety plan and get support from trusted friends or family members as you distance yourself from the abuser.
- Join Support Groups: Connect with others who have experienced narcissistic abuse for understanding and solidarity.
- Explore Therapy: Seek guidance from a licensed, trusted mental health professional, who can help you rebuild your self-esteem, cope with stress and challenge negative thought patterns.
- Make Use of Online Resources: Consider online therapy platforms or support networks dedicated to narcissistic abuse recovery.
- Practice Self-Care: If the narcissist in your life is pulling you down, seek put and engage in activities that build you back up. Remind yourself of who you are and what you value. From exercise to mediation and art, options are plenty for nurturing yourself and re-centering on your self-worth.
Key Takeaway
Narcissistic abuse is a pervasive issue that can deeply affect victims’ well-being and sense of self-worth. And you deserve better.
By recognizing the signs of narcissistic abuse, seeking support and prioritizing self-care, you can take steps toward healing and reclaiming your life. Seeking help is a courageous step toward healing and rebuilding a brighter future.
Above all – remember that you’re not alone, and help is always available for those who seek it. Your mental health is worth the effort of breaking free from narcissistic abuse.