Narcissistic abuse can cause psychological problems, including Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and depression. Some victims of narcissistic abuse suffer from brain damage due to the abuse. There is currently no cure for this type of brain damage, but there are treatments available that can help victims recover.
Long-term abuse can change a victim's brain, resulting in cognitive decline and memory loss. In turn, the changes in the brain can increase the risk for chronic stress, PTSD, and symptoms of self-sabotage.
Depending on how long you were in a relationship with a narcissist, the type of relationship you had with them, and the abuse you experienced, the recovery process can be extensive. Many survivors describe that it took them a year or even several years until they felt like themselves again.
Anxiety and depression
Abusive behaviors don't have the same effects on everyone, but after experiencing abuse from a narcissistic person, victims may struggle with fear, depression, or anxiety, even when they're in ordinary, everyday situations.
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.
While recovery is difficult, it is possible. Taking the necessary steps toward recovery, such as by seeking professional help, recognizing the abuse that occurred, and focusing on yourself, can all help you move past the abuse.
As a narcissistic abuse survivor, you will likely have symptoms of post-traumatic stress. Your brain will be on high alert, looking out for danger. This is because the traumatic events triggered a fight or flight response within you. As a result, anything associated with those memories can trigger an anxiety attack.
In more extreme cases, exposure to a narcissist can lead to clinical depression from the emotional abuse and torment a person has had to endure.
The damage to the amygdala of the victims of narcissistic abuse become trapped in a permanent state of fear and anxiety and react badly to environmental triggers that remind them of the violation by the narcissist. This means that victims of narcissistic abuse are constantly alert to the danger that does not exist now.
Emotional Distress and Psychological Trauma: The constant psychological and emotional manipulation experienced in narcissistic relationships takes a toll on survivors' mental well-being. Victims often suffer from anxiety, depression, and even post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Learning how to recover from narcissistic abuse entails acknowledging your experience, setting appropriate boundaries, and taking excellent care of yourself. Reaching out for support from trusted loved ones or a therapist is also important, as they can provide much-needed comfort, validation, and guidance.
You can start healing from narcissistic abuse by first acknowledging that it happened to you. Then, heal your mind through your body by partaking in self-care through enjoyable physical activity. Lastly, you can reach out to your support system or a support group for guidance and care.
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.
Being the victim of narcissistic abuse can be incredibly traumatic. Professional support from a therapist can help you manage your symptoms and reduce the trauma aftermath.
Over time, this can increase the risk of depression and anxiety. Suicidal thoughts or behaviors: A narcissist may feel suicidal following a narcissistic rage outburst if they are overwhelmed by shame. They may also make threats of self-harm as a manipulation tactic.
The Structural Integrity of the Brain with NPD is Compromised. The cognitive dissonance in a relationship with an NPD partner is substantial, but perhaps it's all in their head. Literally. In recent years, we can actually see narcissism in the brain shown in imaging tests like MRIs and CT scans.
Most recent theories have focused on the link between narcissism and negative childhood experiences, such as physical or sexual violence, neglect, or rejection [10,11].
The way narcissists remain in control is by manipulating their environment in their favor. This is why the narcissist appears to have selective memory. They appear to remember some things and forget others.
While narcissists are not always dangerous, some can become violent when triggered and angered. Depending on the severity of their disorder, they may use manipulation or even physical abuse to maintain control over a situation.
Psychological trauma from their abuse will not just go away. In fact, this type of abuse can cause long lasting post-traumatic stress disorder, or PTSD. The abuse from a narcissist is overwhelming. It is hard to identify and sufferers tend to blame themselves and continue to suffer long after the relationship is over.
Cognitive-behavioral therapy to help you change negative thought patterns and behaviors. Mindfulness-based practices to reduce stress and increase emotional regulation. Support and guidance in setting healthy boundaries and rebuilding self-esteem. A safe and non-judgmental space to process your emotions and experiences.
The condition may last months or years, with triggers that can bring back memories of the trauma accompanied by intense emotional and physical reactions.