How Narcissistic Abuse Shapes Hidden Emotional Wounds in Relationships

Narcissistic abuse is a subtle and insidious form of emotional mistreatment that can leave long-lasting scars on the victim’s mental health and well-being. Whether you are dealing with an arrogant boss at work or a
controlling romantic partner at home understanding the signs of narcissistic abuse will help you avoid
dangerous relationships in the future. Our comprehensive guide covers the unique symptoms of narcissistic
Victim syndrome: the consequences of being abused by a narcissist and the best ways to get help and
support.

Narcissism is a personality disorder that involves a sense of entitlement, a lack of empathy, and an
inflated sense of self-importance. People with narcissistic personality disorder (NPD) are manipulative and
charming – they can gain your trust and make you doubt your own perceptions and beliefs. Keep reading to
learn how to recognize narcissistic abuse and protect yourself from this toxic behavior.

What Is Narcissistic Abuse?

Narcissistic abuse is a term used to describe a specific type of manipulation and brainwashing that the
abuser relies on to make the victim feel less than and dependent on the abuser. This type of abuse is
commonly associated with narcissistic personality disorder (NPD) – a mental health condition characterized
by a lack of empathy and an exaggerated sense of self-importance.

While narcissistic abuse is usually subtle, it can be very effective – an abuser will use their words
and actions to maintain control over the victim, undermine the victim’s perception of reality, and harm the
victim’s self-esteem. This behavior often occurs in romantic relationships, although familial, professional
, and platonic relationships may be affected by narcissistic abuse as well.

Common Signs of Narcissistic Abuse

Here are a few symptoms of narcissistic abuse you may be able to spot:

●     Constant criticism. A narcissist will rarely have a positive thing to say about
the person they want to control. Whether the criticism is direct or disguised as “helpful.”
Advise slowly but surely, negative remarks will make the victim feel like they cannot do anything
right.

●     Gaslighting. This manipulative tactic is often associated with narcissism. When
a narcissist is confronted about their behavior, they may deny certain events took place, question
the victim’s memories, and shift the blame, making the victim doubt their own
judgment.

●     Public humiliation. It is not uncommon for a narcissist to put down their victim
in front of others to assert their control. For instance a narcissistic parent may insult their child
in front of the teacher during a parent-teacher conference.

●     Silent treatment. Instead of talking through the problems with the victim, a
narcissist may decide to ignore the victim and refuse to speak to them until the victim apologizes,
even if the latter was not at fault.

Effects of Narcissistic Abuse

The impact of narcissistic abuse is often profound – victims struggle not only during the abuse but
also after they separate from the narcissist. Here are the most common consequences of narcissistic
abuse:

●     Low self-esteem. Victims of narcissistic abuse often feel worthless and
unimportant – constant criticism and belittling make them focus on their flaws and perceive themselves in a
negative light.

●     Mental health issues. Abuse and stress are linked – it is not unusual for a victim
to suffer from anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) after being subjected to
narcissistic abuse.

●     Physical health problems. There is a strong connection between a person’s mental
and physical well-being. Victims of abuse may have trouble sleeping, suffer from chronic pain, and neglect
their nutrition.

●     Difficulties with future relationships. Victims struggle to return to their normal
lives after the abuse ends – they may choose to isolate themselves from their friends and have trouble
trusting their new romantic partners.

How to Cope With Narcissistic Abuse

Whether you have recently understood you were abused or ended a narcissistic relationship a long time
ago, but still struggle with the consequences, there are things you can do to heal:

●     Avoid contact with the abuser. It may be difficult to cut the narcissist out of your
life, especially if you are married to the abuser or share children with them. However, for your own sanity,
do your best to distance yourself from the abuser and surround yourself with a supportive network of
friends and family.

●     Focus on your mental health. Pay attention to your feelings and emotions in the
aftermath of the abuse. You may want to document your healing journey in a journal – write down the
reminders to take care of yourself and put your needs first.

●     Work with a therapist. Reach out to a mental health professional who has experience
in dealing with narcissistic abuse. A therapist will be able to validate your feelings, recognize the
negative patterns in your behavior, and equip you with the tools you need to recover.

FAQs

Protect Your Well-being and Recover From Narcissistic Abuse

If you or someone you care about has been targeted by a narcissist, getting in touch with a mental health
provider should be your priority. A therapist from Treat Mental Health will be able to develop a
personalized treatment plan based on your unique circumstances, provide you with a listening ear, and show
you the path to recovery.

The team of professionals from Treat Mental Health is always here for you – do not hesitate to reach out
out to us, call our office and schedule a therapy session to start your healing journey!