The goal of this abuse is to maintain control.
At a Glance
Narcissistic abuse can take a serious toll on those who experience it it.
It can be deeply damaging, but recovering from narcissistic abuse is possible.
Valentinrussanov / Getty Images
Ending the relationships, joining a recovery program, and re-building your social support system are vital.
Through it all, remember to trust your gut and set boundaries that allow you to recover.
“One of the biggest misconceptions is that all narcissists exhibit a very easy-to-spot grandiosity,” explains Dow.
Find out which option is the best for you.
While Dow explains that most narcissists are younger men,he notes that this isn’t always the case.
That said, he says there are qualities to look out for.
If you’re wondering if someone you’re interested in is a narcissist, look at their other relationships.
“We all want to get our needs met, and that’s healthy,” says Dow.
Dow says that another way to recognize a narcissist is to notice if they’re constantly looking for praise.
He urges his clients to remember that “confidence is quiet while insecurity is loud.”
To begin the healing process, first, you have to identify the instances of abuse.
This can be harder than it sounds.
Mike Dow, PsyD
Abuse from a narcissist is extremelymanipulativeand controlling.
Because of their low frustration tolerance, they can explode and become very emotionally andverbally abusive.
They frequently gaslight and put you down.
Additionally, Dow notes that narcissists need to be in control.
They know how to pull you back in after they’ve pushed you too far.
Ending a Relationship With a Narcissist
If you’re ready to end your relationship.
If you need help with this, enlist the help of a therapist.
Talking it out with a loved one can also be helpful, or evenjournaling.
Of course, it’s possible for you to also do all of the above.
“In subtle or overt ways, the narcissist has frequently communicated: ‘What’s wrong with YOU?
You’re crazy,'” explains Dow.
Join a Recovery Program
Dow says thatrelationships with narcissistscan commonly triggerco-dependencyin their partners.
“Co-Dependents Anonymous can sometimes be part of the healing journey,” says Dow.
“Especially for people who were previouslycodependent in other relationships.”
Dow explains that one common method of manipulation for narcissists is alienating their partners from theirsupport systems.
“Narcissistic abuse typically means you’ve emptied out these cubby holes,” he says.
“It’s all about putting yourself together again by returning to your old priorities.”
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2022 Jan 22;9(1):5].Borderline Personal Disord Emot Dysregul.
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