Overcoming Emotional Abuse Caused By A Narcissistic Personality - Abuse Warrior (2024)

Overcoming emotional abuse caused by a narcissistic personality is a challenge for anyone facing that mountain!

What is Abuse?

“Abuse” is a word that is thrown around a lot in casual conversations; but what defines abuse?

How does one know if they are committing the abuse or being abused?

It’s quite simple.

According to the Gale Encyclopedia of Medicine, the definition of abuse is the following:

Abuse is defined as any action that intentionally harms or injures another person.

Overcoming Emotional Abuse Caused By A Narcissistic Personality - Abuse Warrior (1)

Am I being Abused?

So what exactly constitutes intimate partner violence or spousal abuse?

What are the different types of abuse?

Spousal abuse does not necessarily involve physical violence.

Women who are mistreated in less apparent ways may need support in recognizing that their partners’ behavior is unacceptably controlling and constitutes abuse.

We categorize abusive behaviors under eight general headings.

Each type of abuse involves an imbalance of power in the relationship, whereby the abuser attempts to degrade, intimidate and thereby exert control over his partner.

Abuse includes:

  • Emotional Abuse
  • Social Abuse
  • Financial Abuse
  • Physical Abuse
  • Sexual Abuse
  • Environmental Abuse
  • Religious Abuse
  • Ritual Abuse.

A single one of these acts may not constitute abuse, but if someone is doing something to harm or control you, then you are being abused.

You have the right to be treated respectfully and feel safe in your home.

Overcoming Emotional Abuse Caused By A Narcissistic Personality - Abuse Warrior (2)

Overcome Narcissistic Abuse

Let me guide you through the process of overcoming emotional abuse caused by a narcissistic personality in your life. Become an Abuse Warrior and win your battle!

Not Sure Where to Start?

Educate yourself first.

17 Signs That You’ve Been Abused By A Narcissist

Narcissistic abuse can start so slyly that is can it incredibly hard to be sure if that is what you are going through. When you are the victim, your entire reality has been manipulated, warped, and distorted. You are a victim, a narcissist has abused you.

What To Expect When Living With A Narcissist

People that have Narcissist Personality Disorder (NPD) are pretty common and can be found in all different paths throughout your life. There will more than likely come a time when you find yourself working with or living with a narcissist.

A Narcissist’s Flying Monkeys + 3 Tactics To Disarm Them

The term‘flying monkeys’refers to ‘abuse by proxy,’ or having someone else perform the bidding of another person, in this case, a narcissist.

Anyone who grew up watching The Wizard of Oz will recall how frightening the Wicked Witch of the West’s flying monkeys were.

What Is Narcissistic Personality Disorder?

Narcissistic Personality Disorder is nothing to take lightly. Nor is it a label to lightly put on someone you think is arrogant.

The warped thinking is so ingrained and stubborn that the mental health profession has had little success in dealing with it. It’s called “malignant” narcissism because itisjust that, malignant. So, it’s far worse than just being arrogant. A malignant narcissist is apredator

In other words, Narcissistic Personality Disorder is as serious as sociopathy. In fact, it is increasinglythought to be a form of sociopathy/psychopathy. NPD isn’t occasional behavior. It is a pervasive pattern of thinking and behaving that corrupts virtually every human interaction.

Narcissistic Behaviors That Distort Your Reality

Narcissists engage in behaviors that are harmful to everyone they meet.
Below are the tactics they use to distort your reality and the motivations behind them. These are classic narcissistic behaviors in a nutshell:

Overcoming Emotional Abuse Caused By A Narcissistic Personality - Abuse Warrior (3)

What To Expect When You Break Up With A Narcissist

A relationship with a narcissist can be unpredictable enough, but breaking up one can be hell. Learn exactly what you can expect when you break up with your narcissistic partner.

11 Subtle Signs Of Trauma Bonding

Trauma bonding occurs because the trauma of the abuse changes your brain physiologically as you start to release neuropeptides that bond you to your partner which you are addicted to.

Overcoming Emotional Abuse Caused By A Narcissistic Personality - Abuse Warrior (4)

The Transformation is Real; They Break you Slowly

Overcoming Emotional Abuse Caused By A Narcissistic Personality - Abuse Warrior (5)

A narcissist will
Turn Independence Into codependency
confidence into insecurity
extroversion into introversion
happiness into depression
hope into fear
&all without anyone noticing
…Not even the victim

Not just a survivor, A warrior

Continue Reading About Narcissistic Personality Disorder

Helpful Resources

Recommended Reading

What Is Narcissistic Personality Disorder?

  • Understanding Ritual Abuse: A Twisted Belief System
  • Healing Journey: Finding Closure After Narcissistic Abuse
  • Coping with Emotional Manipulation: Key Tips
  • Setting Boundaries with a Narcissist: Essential Tips
  • Understanding Toxic Behavior Patterns in Relationships
  • Uncovering the Covert Narcissist: Key Signs of A Covert Narcissist
  • Covert Narcissists’ Phrases: Things Covert Narcissists Say Uncovered
  • Detachment and Narcissism: Insights and Tips
  • Understanding the Law of Detachment in Psychology
  • Drop Charges Against Your Boyfriend: A Guide
  • Therapist’s Duty: Report Domestic Violence?
  • Qualify for Disability with PTSD from Domestic Abuse
  • Can You Drop Domestic Violence Charges? Find Out!
  • Get a Restraining Order for Verbal Abuse: Know Your Rights
  • Protective Orders for Verbal Abuse: Know Your Rights
  • Jail Time for Domestic Violence: How Long?
  • Dropping Domestic Violence Charges: A Guide
  • Understanding What is a Domestic Dispute
  • Learn How to Break a Trauma Bond with a Narcissist
  • Discover Your Bonds: Take Our Trauma Bonding Test Today
  • Understanding the 7 Stages of Trauma Bond: A Guide
  • Understanding the Difference: Trauma Bond versus Love
  • Explore Trauma Bonding Quotes – Wisdom in Overcoming Painful Bonds
  • Transform Your Life with Expert Codependency Treatment
  • Journey to Freedom: A Guide to Codependency Recovery
  • Recognizing Codependency Symptoms: A Comprehensive Guide
  • Unlock Healing with Codependency Therapy – Start Today!
  • Best Codependency Books: Guidance for Healthier Relationships
  • Effective Steps on How to Overcome Codependency Today
  • Understanding Codependency and Trauma Bond: A Guide
  • Breaking the Chains: Understanding Codependency and Addiction
  • Unlock Your Freedom: Codependency Self-Help Guide
  • Recognizing the Key Signs of Codependency – Know Your Patterns
  • Understanding Codependency in Relationships: A Comprehensive Guide
  • Experience Successful Reunification Therapy Today
  • Understanding Child Custody Battles and Parental Alienation
  • Finding Your Path: Healing from Parental Alienation Guide
  • Enhancing Child Well-Being in Cases of Parental Alienation
  • Understanding Your Legal Rights in Cases of Parental Alienation
  • Effective Therapy for Parental Alienation – Find Healing Now
  • Find Help with Support Groups for Parental Alienation
  • Effective Strategies for Coping with Parental Alienation
  • Helpful Resources for Parental Alienation: Guides and Support
  • Understanding Parental Alienation: Causes, Effects, and Solutions
  • Recognizing Key Signs of Parental Alienation – An Essential Guide
  • Understanding the Effects of Parental Alienation on Children
  • Effective Methods on How to Prevent Parental Alienation in Families
  • Understanding the Legal Implications of Parental Alienation in the US
  • Understanding Sexual Deviant Personality Traits
  • How to Rebuild Your Life After Escaping a Narcissistic Relationship
  • The Connection Between Narcissistic Abuse and PTSD: What You Need to Know
  • Narcissism Quotes That Will Open Your Eyes
  • How to Get Over a Trauma Bond: Healing and Moving Forward
  • Abusers Who Play the Victim: Unmasking Manipulative Behavior in Domestic Relationships
  • Which Types Of Abuse Are Physical?
  • How Does Abuse Affect A Woman?
  • How Does Emotional Abuse Affect A Man?
  • What Are Key Examples Of Abuse
  • How Can Abuse Affect Future Relationships?
  • What Is Meant By Physical Abuse?
  • How Does Physical Abuse Affect A Person Long Term?
  • What Does Physical Abuse Do To A Man?
  • What Types Of People Use Love Bombing?
  • Can Love Bombing Happen Unintentionally?
  • Recognizing Trauma Bond Withdrawal Symptoms: A Comprehensive Guide
  • 15 Signs Of An Abusive Relationship (With Examples)
  • What Are The Main Cycles Of An Abusive Relationship?
  • What Are The Key Signs Of Emotional Abuse?
  • What To Do When A Narcissist Is Mad At You?
  • What Happens When An Empath Leaves A Narcissist?
  • How To Communicate With A Narcissist
  • How To Make A Narcissist Respect You
  • What Happens When You Ignore A Narcissist?
  • Songs About Emotional Abuse: Unveiling the Power of Music
  • Is Financial Abuse Considered A Crime?
  • What Is Classified As Financial Abuse?
  • What Are Some Red Flags Of Financial Abuse?
  • Is Financial Neglect Considered Abuse?
  • Can A Parent Be Financially Abusive?
  • Who Does A Narcissist Marry?
  • Word Salad: A Comprehensive Guide to Understanding the Phenomenon
  • Understanding Parental Alienation: Signs, Effects, and How to Address It

Emergency Numbers

Rape Abuse and Incest National Network (RAINN)is the nation’s largest organization fighting sexual violence: (800) 656-HOPE / (800) 810-7440 (TTY)

988 Mental Health Emergency Hotline: Calling 988 will connect you to a crisis counselor regardless of where you are in the United States.

911 Emergency

The National Runaway Safeline: 800-RUNAWAY (800-786-2929)

Self Abuse Finally Ends (S.A.F.E)

American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry, Trauma & Child Abuse Resource Center

Domestic Violence Shelters & Resources

Futures Without Violence

National Center for Victims of Crime

National Coalition Against Domestic Violence

National Network to End Domestic Violence

National Sexual Violence Resource Center

Prevent Child Abuse America

Stalking Prevention, Awareness, and Resource Center (SPARC)

National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) HelpLine: 1-800-950-NAMI, or text “HELPLINE” to 62640. Both services are available between 10 a.m. and 10 p.m. ET, Monday–Friday

National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-7233

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-TALK (8255); www.suicidepreventionlifeline.org.Or, just dial 988

Suicide Prevention, Awareness, and Support:www.suicide.org

Crisis Text Line: Text REASON to 741741 (free, confidential and 24/7). In English and Spanish

Self-Harm Hotline: 1-800-DONT CUT (1-800-366-8288)

Family Violence Helpline: 1-800-996-6228

American Association of Poison Control Centers: 1-800-222-1222

National Council on Alcoholism & Drug Dependency: 1-800-622-2255

LGBTQ Hotline: 1-888-843-4564

National Maternal Mental Health Hotline: 1-833-TLC-MAMA (1-833-852-6262)

The Trevor Project: 1-866-488-7386 or text “START” to 678678. Standard text messaging rates apply. Available 24/7/365. (Provides crisis intervention and suicide prevention services to lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer & questioning—LGBTQ—young people under 25.)

TheSAGE LGBT Elder Hotlineconnects LGBT older people and caretakers with friendly responders. 1-877-360-LGBT (5428)

TheTrans Lifelineis staffed by transgender people for transgender people:
1-877-565-8860 (United States)
1-877-330-6366 (Canada)

Veterans Crisis Line:https://www.veteranscrisisline.net

International Suicide Prevention Directory:findahelpline.com

TheStrongHearts Native Helplineis a confidential and anonymous culturally appropriate domestic violence and dating violence helpline for Native Americans, available every day from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. CT. Call 1-844-762-8483.

‘Find a Therapist’ Online Directories

Canada

UK & Republic of Ireland

  • Emergency: 112 or 999
  • Hotline: +44 (0) 8457 90 90 90 (UK – local rate)
  • Hotline: +44 (0) 8457 90 91 92 (UK minicom)
  • Hotline: 1850 60 90 90 (ROI – local rate)
  • Hotline: 1850 60 90 91 (ROI minicom)
  • YourLifeCounts.org:https://yourlifecounts.org/find-help/
Overcoming Emotional Abuse Caused By A Narcissistic Personality - Abuse Warrior (2024)

FAQs

How does narcissistic abuse change you? ›

After experiencing narcissistic abuse, you may experience extreme fear or anxiety in relationships with new people. Those who leave abusive relationships may experience separation anxiety, leading them to feel panicked and disoriented when they're not with their abusers.

What are the long term effects of narcissistic abuse? ›

Like other forms of psychological abuse and emotional abuse, it can lead to anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder. Victims may also struggle with regulating emotions, leading to mood swings, anger outbursts, or emotional numbness as a result of these mental health issues.

How do narcissists punish their victims? ›

Withholding: People who are narcissists may withhold money, affection, or even communication in an attempt to punish their abuse victims. The silent treatment is a frequently-seen form of withholding. Emotional blackmail: In a toxic relationship, your own emotions can be used against you.

What happens to your body with narcissistic abuse? ›

Physical Symptoms

Narcissistic victim syndrome can also result in unexplainable physical symptoms such as headaches, physical pains, high blood pressure, and digestion issues. These symptoms are often the body's natural reaction to stress or trauma and commonly occur after experiencing psychological abuse.

How to heal brain damage from narcissistic abuse? ›

It is important for teens who have experienced narcissistic abuse to seek support and healing. This may include therapy, support groups, and other forms of self-care. In some cases, medication may also be necessary to manage symptoms such as anxiety and depression.

How long does it take your brain to recover from narcissistic abuse? ›

It can take years to fully recover from the damage that was done because of the psychological manipulation that you have endured. That being said, moving past the abuse and achieving full recovery is entirely possible with professional help.

What is the last stage of narcissistic abuse? ›

The four phases are idealization, devaluation, discard and hoovering.

What are the signs that someone has suffered from narcissistic abuse? ›

This is what narcissistic abuse looks like.

The aftermath of narcissistic abuse can include depression, anxiety, hypervigilance, a pervasive sense of toxic shame, emotional flashbacks that regress the victim back to the abusive incidents, and overwhelming feelings of helplessness and worthlessness.

What are typical behaviors of narcissistic abuse survivors? ›

Victims of narcissistic abuse develop coping mechanisms to survive. But once the abuse has ended, their coping mechanisms may turn maladaptive. Over-focusing on others' needs, failing to set boundaries, or doing anything in exchange for kindness may pave the way for maltreatment or abuse.

Do narcissists realize they are hurting people? ›

While people with narcissism aren't devoid of emotions, their motivations may be self-focused. They can know they're hurting your feelings, but as long as it elevates their status, they may not care. Someone living with narcissism does cry. They can feel regret, remorse, and sadness.

Does a narcissist ever let go of a victim? ›

Breakups with narcissists don't always end the relationship. Many won't let you go, even when it's they who left the relationship, and even when they're with a new partner. They won't accept “no.” They hoover in an attempt to rekindle the relationship or stay friends after a breakup or divorce.

How narcissists try to destroy you? ›

Grooming a person, manipulating her into doubting her feelings, generating shame regarding her best qualities, and manipulatively creating dependency are four ways a narcissist destroys a person from the inside out.

Do narcissists know they are abusive? ›

Some narcissists, such as malignant narcissists, actually enjoy abusing others. It's important to know that NPD occurs on a spectrum, and many narcissists don't actively seek to abuse and hurt others. Many are entirely unaware that their efforts to meet their own needs are actually harmful to others.

What does a depressed narcissist look like? ›

Signs of narcissistic depression can include: Damage to interpersonal relationships. Hostility toward others (e.g., blaming, making accusations) Suicidal ideation typically triggered by external events (e.g., perceived rejection)

What happens after years of narcissistic abuse? ›

Narcissistic abuse is insidious and can cause lasting effects like low self-esteem, trust issues, self-doubt, grief, depression, and anxiety. With time and treatment, it's possible to heal and overcome these issues, recovering parts of yourself and your life that were lost to the abuser.

What does narcissistic abuse do to someone? ›

Low self-worth and self-esteem

Narcissistic abuse may cause low self-esteem and a reduced sense of self. Narcissistic abuse may cause feelings of worthlessness and shame and may make people lose confidence.

How does being with a narcissist change you? ›

Effects of Dating a Narcissist

You may struggle with low self-esteem or constant self-doubt. You might feel isolated or like you've lost your sense of self. You may prioritize your partner's needs or walk on eggshells around them. You may spend a lot more money on your partner than they do on you.

Are you ever the same after narcissistic abuse? ›

Narcissistic abuse is insidious and can cause lasting effects like low self-esteem, trust issues, self-doubt, grief, depression, and anxiety. With time and treatment, it's possible to heal and overcome these issues, recovering parts of yourself and your life that were lost to the abuser.

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