Surviving narcissistic abuse:

Many people may recognize they are or have been in some kind of narcissistic relationship before. They realize they have stayed on eggshells in hopes to keep the narcissist from turning on them. Many have stayed in these relationships for different reasons. There is no judgement here.

Many people are ashamed, feel guilty, feel they need to be the caregiver, feel they don’t know who they are anymore without the narcissist (enmeshed) and are just surviving each day.

Everyone deserves to be happy , not just the narcissist’s who want what they want and when. Narcissist’s are human and we do have empathy for them but we can’t expect them to have empathy for us. That would be us projecting our feelings onto them which they don’t have. Lowering your expectations of what they can give you and understanding, can help you know it’s not your fault. You can’t change them and that would be trying to control them. We CAN change how we respond.

Getting a support group or talking regularly with a therapist about your feelings is helpful. These people will understand you, a narcissist won’t. Those conversations will only frustrate you with a narcissist. Confronting them can even be dangerous. There are people who do understand and can help you work through your trauma bond.

People who have not recognized they were used by a narcissist or been in a relationship like this , don’t understand. Hopefully they will never experience it as we bring awareness. It is extremely painful. I personally know that pain.
It took me many years to heal from narcissistic abuse. It was the hardest lesson of my life. This lesson helped me to know myself more, to enjoy life to the fullest and most of all to love myself.

Giving to others doesn’t mean ignoring your own needs. You are a person who deserves love and it’s ok to take care of yourself. You don’t have to feel guilty for taking time out for you.

I am here, I understand and millions of people are thinking of you, right now. World Narcissistic Abuse Awareness Day is June 1st to help speak out about this type of silent abuse. Your wounds may be hidden but that doesn’t mean they aren’t real.

Sending hugs to all of you who recognize this type of abuse. Thanking all of you who take the time to learn about it and support your loved ones.

You don’t have to be a victim and feel ashamed anymore. You are a survivor of emotional and psychological abuse. 💜

Jennifer Watkins

Narc Shield @YouTube