THIS Is What Trauma Bonding With A Narcissist Does To A Decent Person

[@tartanbessy436]

Best advice i ever got. "When you are constantly questioning yourself, you are questioning the wrong person."

[@SurvivingNarcissism]

Great way to put it!

[@katherineg9396]

I think that is brilliant. I wrote that in my notebook of words of wisdom. Thank you for sharing. My best wishes to you!

[@tartanbessy436]

@@katherineg9396 you are very welcome! I love your idea of your note book 🤗

[@tartanbessy436]

@@SurvivingNarcissism 🤗🤗 you are welcome.

[@katherineg9396]

@@tartanbessy436 I have Dr Carter in my notebook too!

[@MT-tx7bu]

The most difficult part about this trauma bond is how it slowly tears down your self-esteem.

[@SurvivingNarcissism]

So true. On Monday, August 7 I'll be addressing that topic as I discuss rethinking the narcissist's shame messages.

[@MT-tx7bu]

@@SurvivingNarcissism thank you!

[@notinterested8452]

Ironically it's impossible to be Americans without a very strong narcissistic identity complex.

[@Giga3D811]

@@SurvivingNarcissism can you do one where you help us become better and learn healthier ways of thinking. i dont want to be a narcissist, i dont really choose to be this way, but i know i can change it. can you help us

[@seanlehman244]

Don’t forget tearing down our souls.

[@AD-fb6qf]

Did anyone else get a small smirk/smile from the narcissistic partner when you were very down or insulted? It was like he enjoyed my suffering.

[@Kayannajo]

Or when they've already made you cry, but they keep insulting you and grinding you down while you're sitting there crying?

[@moirosalina]

Awful!

[@themaggattack]

Yep. My mother loved to make me cry. She'd get that little smile when I cried. She REALLY loved to make me angry. She'd get a huge smile and an evil gleam in her eyes then.

[@enteblu6799]

Unfortunately yes. In many occasions and this thing bugged me for months…I couldn’t believe my eyes. He was happy of seeing me crying…

[@nuunubinzer4673]

Yes! 😢

[@DouglasFrank-w4q]

Love it when the narcissist tells me "you're too sensitive" when I finally react to the criticism and constant little digs.

[@truuluvv]

"You're being emotional, You're over-reacting!"

[@msdemeanour]

They also tell you that you will never meet anyone as amazing as them 😂 These creeps all use the same textbook

[@emmarae4322]

Or “you misinterpreted what I said.”🙄

[@jennyblankenship1419]

Or “I was just joking” and “I can’t even joke around with you” after saying something hurtful.

[@stevensawyer5924]

Each one of you have said the very things mine said to me... My professional trauma therapist for my cptsd!!! Broke free 10 months ago. It's like trying to recover from severe drug addiction or something. She robbed me of my life savings and destroyed my psyche. Tried to report her but no one believes me.

[@laverdadbuscador]

from my experience the narcissist thinks you're the narcissist when their tactics don't work anymore. Their lack of accountability is insane.

[@PS-xs8wy]

Yes, couldn't agree more. The projection that they do is surreal and equally, sad. Although it hurts, being aware that accountability should be shared speaks volumes to one's character. The hardest pill to swallow for me is that these people aren't born this way - someone else created them and there's so much hurt inside. It doesn't excuse the behavior but it does provide enough closure to explain it to some degree. A friend told me once 'hurt people hurt people' - it's the tale as old as time. Stay strong my friend.

[@TheBenzwanger]

It is insane right? We have a 13 year old, one out of 5 kids who has a disruptive mood disorder and narcissism is a big side effect. Our house has become a warzone if we try to hold the 13 year old accountable for anything. The second she even gets the hint that she might have to face a consequence for her actions, even stealing knives out of my room and took them to school, still acted like we were insane for even bringing it up when she got home. We have put locks on everything because she steals everything she can get a hold of. The stuff she brings home from school are insane. Like, 12 different kids didn't just put their sissors in your backpack. And if she's ever on a nice streak she's always doing something crazy like having stolen a phone and is using it while hiding it on her person or running a energy drink selling operation at school. All our other kids are fantastic students and behave really well. Even a young narcissist will control an entire house and if they feel they can't they try to start physically bullying you or intimidating you.

[@daniellapawl6508]

mmhmmmm....

[@Bianca-sw5id]

What happened to me is he was very interested in me and interested in helping me til , he found out about the nightmare my mom and stepdad had made of my loss of income that I wasn't getting and still not what I should have , and nothing according to his lawyer or attorney or advocate could be done without spending big money , and from there things went very downhill for me financially. . . that's when I began to meet with him less . . . I didn't realise that he was capable of being so incompassionate

[@9897431]

I think ppl get away with it cus its not spelled out- like everyones got a different situation so theyre unsure if it applies or if theyre "making a mountain out of a mole hill" .... I knew a person that wouldnt say no (to sex) cus it would be rude and another who would justify getting physically abused because they fight with them too........ like...................... NO.

[@riverdonoghue9992]

I wish they would teach kids in school about this because most people especially empaths don't recognise this until its too late.

[@memes.1114]

This is so true, and the damage is already done by the time you realize.

[@helenhighwater5313]

Not likely to happen considering many "educators", especially those in administration, are flaming narcs themselves.

[@marshamcdonald1475]

With the high divorce rate, Domestic violence, Crime rate, child abuse, Single parenting, expensive Safe child care, in the USA Education system should Be a subject ( narcissist) Should be required subject.

[@hazor777]

"School" ? Are you kidding me? The age for "school" dissipated decades ago. The agenda of a public edu. system now is to create as many dumbed down, compliant, stupid people as possible . No, "school" is now a mentally healthy, spiritually grounded (in Christ) parent - like it originally was ages ago. Public School system now is pure child abuse.

[@TaxingIsThieving]

@@helenhighwater5313 I was literally about to comment that myself. Teaching about narcissism would be a disaster - just look at what 'educating' about depression and anxiety has done. Now every single brat uses the mental illness in common parlance. Look at ANY teenybopper KZbin comment section to see the meme they've created out of what is often the result of narcissistic abuse.

[@cherylpalazzo352]

Narcissists can read a person in 2 seconds, they usually pick very good innocent people, who have no idea people like this exist.

[@saraswathimenon3516]

True

[@jenniferburton7044]

So true

[@krissyp7219]

isn't that the truth!

[@cherylpalazzo352]

@@Tamara_W omg !! Yesss

[@cherylpalazzo352]

@@Tamara_W same

[@krissyp7219]

It's never too late to seek freedom and safety. I escaped my trauma bond after 31 years of marriage. If I can do it, you can too.

[@masterofwit339]

This gives me hope ♥️

[@krissyp7219]

@@masterofwit339 I wish you wisdom, safety and success.

[@beachchick7688]

I escaped after 16 yrs. A broken nose and 2 broken ribs. Found out my narc took out 350,000 in CC and loans unbeknownst to me. 4 years fighting him in court. Be careful My life was a nightmare. Lost a home I bought long before I met him. They are awful sinful evil people

[@krissyp7219]

@@beachchick7688 Oh, my gosh. I am so sorry you were treated that way! What a coward he was to hurt you. And yes, evil too. You did not deserve that at all. I am so sorry you lost your home, on top of all the other cruelty you endured. I hope your long nightmare with him, and in the courts, is finally over. Hoping you never have to have contact with hime again. Be wise and over protect yourself going forward because evil people do not like giving up control. Blessings to you, beach chick!!!

[@karenjohnson5905]

@@krissyp7219 Thank you … I needed to hear that. We’ve been married 30yrs & yesterday’s serve of “Am I a good man? Am I good enough for you?” out of the blue coupled with “if you’re not able to support me & what I’m going to do next then maybe we should go our separate ways” did my head in. The manipulation the night before just to get his own way was more than enough but to throw this at me too … too much. Thank you for giving me hope. I can’t live like this any longer.

[@PyrPupMom]

When you act like a crazy person only in the presence of one person, and the rest of the time you're a normal human being, maybe it's not you.

[@homegown1234]

It wasn't me who wanted a peaceful existence but he each month would act crazy and start an argument with me? I that prefer a peaceful existence. What was worse I realized he was like my mother - a narcissist from the beginning and so I married the duplicate of my mother. Who leaned and depended on my older sister and me to support her despite being married to a bum.

[@moniquelewis7839]

I think this all the time. Raised four healthy children. Worked my whole life. A friend to many. Had relationships. Yet I am crazy, I don’t remember things accurately, I pick fights, I am miserable, I appreciate nothing. I am controlling and a manipulator. Yet not one person has ever said, seen, or implied, this about me in anyway, in the 59 years I lived prior to meeting this one person. I am five days out, what an experience this has been, what in the world happened to me. I am so confused, but I am free, and have time to collapse and heal.

[@smoly37]

​@@moniquelewis7839Sorry to hear what happened to you. Glad to know you're out!! I'm a 61 year old woman, I met my bf 15 years ago. I took me a long time to understand what was really wrong with him, until a family member of his told me that my bf's father was a fullblown narcissist. My bf has certainly a lot of the same trades. But!! You are so right: one of the thoughts that kept me sane, going through all this abuse, was: Nobody, literally nobody had EVER accused me of trades that I was supposed to have by his standards. Not my best friend for 45 years. Nor others, family or friends. Because it's NOT TRUE!! I hope I'll be rid of this toxic, evil, sad man soon. Take good care of yourself!! Try to have fun again, eat well and cook for yourself, take enough fysical exercise, join a fun-bookclub or whatever you fancy. That's MY advice. For me, personally, I really have to start to love ME. Be loyal to ME. I've certainly learned a lot. About myself and this type of men.

[@sandyquispe4746]

So true! For 36 years.

[@dee-or9zh]

The operative word is “maybe”. Narc definitely abuse “behind closed doors”, it is part of any Cluster B disorder.

[@evelina787]

“There is simply no winning with a narcissist. They will treat you so horribly that you will become withdrawn and depressed and then they will turn around and say, ‘You’re no fun anymore, you’re always so depressed. I need to be with someone more positive.’” - Susan Williams

[@YourLocalPunkAnarchist]

thats exactly like my mother- actually that's the exact things she typically does and says, its what she said before divorcing my dad and what she keeps on saying to me whenever im angry and tired of being around her at all, even looking at her face makes me feel sick sometimes...

[@jennywilson3740]

Yup. There's no winning with a narcissist. They blame all their internal mess and self-inflicted misery on you and expect you to accept the blame without question. Don't waste your time!

[@evelina787]

@@jennywilson3740 God bless you Thnks for your response enlightenment insight All so right in a nutshell Truly come to the conclusion, you can't do right for doing wrong No mtter how hard you try No mtter what good kind hearted deeds you do You just can't win 😔🍀🙏

[@sukayna7026]

No winning. I agree. Winning for us is to stay away from them. Narcissist always try to turn everything upside down to make his/her victim feel weak and guilty for no reason. It is very tricky, sick and awful tactic. I met those kind of people few times in my life. And I must say you never win with them, you can only run for your life. They do not even know they are sick. Mr or Mrs or Miss always right.

[@evelina787]

@@sukayna7026 yes indeed, God bless you The problem is forever with them, & they will go to any lengths to gslight us & convince others, their flying Monkeys, that it is us with all the problems you know? God bless you Sincerely hope lifes treating you extremely kindly now

[@wephotogal]

"I lost myself and how the hell did I get here?" is 100% accurate. I'm in my early 50s and I don't think I will ever be loved correctly. I'd rather die alone than go through that abuse again.

[@adriancaldwell]

Keep an open mind there’s someone perfect for you

[@wephotogal]

@@adriancaldwell - Thank you for saying that, but I feel whole and at peace with no drama.

[@melissawalton8626]

I know the feeling all too well x

[@deelightful6124]

I’m 54 empath who had to learned to guard my heart.after 8 years of marriage with a insecure control freak I left him at the age of 31. Because I’m naturally upbeat and outgoing, I thought I was over it but I really wasn’t. I spent the next 15 years in a string of toxic relationships with self absorbed losers. I finally asked myself why do I keep attracting cthe same kind of person again and again??? When I faced my inner child who was routinely molested, I realized that I never learned to erect healthy boundaries.... I never really healed that little girl .now, at 54. Have done much work on my energy body I have talked with my inner child and held her lived her affirmed her I have worked diligently it was a long process but I’m in a much better place and truly enjoy being single. I have not given up on love.. just taking time for self love.

[@grammytina373]

It really does leave you unable to love again, in a healthy relationship. I'm 71 and I'm afraid to get into a new relationship. It's just too exhausting trying to figure out if the other person is abusive or not. And then you've got to figure out how to get out of the relationship if it does turn abusive.

[@warrenbrowne9648]

Narc abuse gave me the worst anxiety . Walk away and just sit back and watch . When they are left in their own space and time it will destroy them . A narc will never be at piece with themselves in the end . 🙏

[@teresacastillo1783]

They trap in the net after all

[@embracedchimera5886]

thats so true they cant stand themselves alone but it also hurts to know they will quickly find new supply for this very reason,but the ones who cannot,they go off the deep end into self destructive behaviors.

[@l.k.2337]

They incite you, provoke you, and smash through your boundaries. When you react, they use that reaction to call you "crazy." They in turn use your reaction, to prove that they're the "superior" one. They then slander you with their enablers.

[@elwoodalbert4677]

Perfectly said.

[@jerrierussell8505]

@@elwoodalbert4677 I agree!

[@fangorangutang]

Spot on. My father exactly.

[@IceSk8Princessa12]

Truth!!!

[@ramonabanker277]

Exactly that. Then they repeat the cycle.

[@marysuzannajayne1340]

Exposing the Narcissist is like throwing water on the wicked witch of the West! Even as she’s melting, you feel sorry for her for a second until finally she’s done screeching and you realize how nice it is not to be around her anymore!!

[@debigreen482]

So glad you said this! Yes! I have grieved for the last 2 months since I've left for how she must feel. But that's totally over now.

[@1010QUEEN7]

😂😂😂

[@brindaking981]

I'm in process of evecting my daughter boyfriend..its been 10 years..he done every thing possible to break me down..

[@janetlieb2507]

Yes!!

[@jwhalen111]

lol 🤣

[@mysticmoon8443]

This is more validation in 13 minutes than I’ve gotten in 20 years. A narcissist will make you question everything about yourself and life in general.

[@danasmith2247]

Perfectly said.

[@memoryrinehart]

So don't allow them to. God is Love. Gospel fyi: Acts 2:38 Acts 22:16 Mark 16:16 Revelation 1:5 1 Corinthians 11 (veil)

[@tiastorie6599]

Me too! It made me feel so much better about myself and the grieving .

[@terriaki1273]

It takes a long time to find you again.

[@brendakriedeman8795]

A narcissist will make you feel bad about who you are- everyday 😢

[@marcdautricourt4477]

Looking at all of these comments I can't believe we don't talk about this more as a society it is real and it really affects people

[@marilynrose44]

It took me 40 something yrs to realize that I dated a narcissist and the mask was like a angel of light lord have mercy

[@RS54321]

@@marcdautricourt4477 I think the same thing!! This should be taught everywhere, especially in schools. Most people are oblivious, and it seems only those of us who have gone thru the trenches see them for who they are.

[@marianmcevoy4943]

I totally agree ​@RS54321

[@LaPinturaBella]

And the biggest problem recently is people through out the word"narcissist" towards anyone who may be egotistical or vain, or who doesn't comply with a request. It's watering down the danger actual narcissists pose to those closest to them.

[@RS54321]

@@LaPinturaBella 'through out' ? There is a difference bt someone acting narcissistic and someone diagnosed with NPD. The biggest problem isn't labeling a narcissist as such (the traits are seen in their behaviour). The biggest problem in our world is far greater than that. A big problem lies in the narcissist themselves and the devastating effects they have on society, not on people calling them out.

[@ThruTheMatrix]

Toughest part is when you discover it's your mother. When you have a mother that has the whole family on strings and you're the only one who sees her true self - it's a feeling of loneliness that is incredibly detrimental.

[@opopopop6286]

Well, this CAN be your greatest teacher. Who else can you thank for programming you so deeply in your childhood AND GIVING YOU THE OPPORTUNITY to overcome such by healing AND growing into the person you want to be? Also ask yourself the question, were they completely evil to you in every way...or was it MORE like a balance when you see clearly? Did they give you any food, mothers milk even to keep you alive, along with the huge dollops of abuse also to keep you in subjection? So there was balance here. Why then all the hate or dislike towards such a person. Also you probably have a good deal of the SAME traits your mom or dad had/has, so there is also that to remember as well. Can you be balanced towards other people, instead of all positive or negative? Is this part of your learning experience? Also JUST SO YOU KNOW, I am an old person now (well soon getting there at least), and have one of my parents who is a malignant narc as well. There is more to it than only this, yet I just thought I would share that so you realize I have MUCH of the same experience you do with this in the past. I have come to some very fine understandings through it all. Remember PROPER GOLDEN SILENCE, and saying NO without saying NO (using neurolinguistic programming) are your two MAIN weapons as an empath...use them super well!

[@franklyfearpilled]

@@opopopop6286 i respect your intentions with this response, but i feel the need to point out the fact that having a narcissistic mother is not a necessity in order to grow as a person. it is not at all a positive experience, no matter how much you look back on it and think “well, they did x y and z for me so they can’t be all bad”. wrong. i understand that they are full people who have positive traits and were able to provide for us physically, but it is an absolutely miserable experience to know that they will never be there for you emotionally. as someone with a narcissistic mother, it was so agonizing to always feel like there was somehow something wrong with me. recently, i had the revelation that she was just incapable of seeing me as a person. praising these people for doing the bare minimum as parents and “teaching us” is further feeding their monstrous ego. if this is how you want to make sense of it for yourself, i can’t tell you how to deal with your trauma. but spreading this notion can be dangerous to those of us who still believe that we are somehow exaggerating our very real pain

[@opopopop6286]

@@franklyfearpilled believe me, or just even better KNOW. You can carry around the hate/unforgiveness all you wish. You can also deny every part in yourself that is REMOTELY like your parents. Was she completely 100% evil? You know the answers to these questions, are you? Do you utterly hate that person that gave birth to you and kept you alive with her efforts? Was she like the worst narc ever or like everything else you see in this dualistic world, was it more of a balance, otherwise why did you put up with it for so long? Did you leave immediately when you had the first chance? Or was it more of a learning experience for you also. You ever put her through any sort of emotional turmoil? Are both of you just NPC's anyways in a matrix like setting? Does everything you state come out as 100% true all the time? You ever lie about things or just plain get them wrong because of beLIEfs like many/most people (by far) I find in this place do? Lots of questions, and I am sure most of them will remain unanswered by you. This is fine for I already know MUCH of the truth in this area. They are known as rhetorical questions, placed more here for myself and any other sentient soul that may RARELY chance across them than they are for anyone else.

[@opopopop6286]

You will remain stuck in your hatred/unforgiveness as long as you wish IMO. You can also move up the ladder if you are a sentient soul...from your currently wounded-ness being a CoDep, to being an actual empath proper, to being a MASTER (or whatever) of your own reality...one able to change EXISTENCE by mere thought alone...so your choice, if you have one.

[@Twinklez63]

I am there. I cut my mother off a few months ago. My brother and my kids are so blind to her. They've tried to manipulate me. I have had so much peace since walking away nothing can make me associate with her again.

[@PyrPupMom]

"They're the problem. They want you to think that you are the problem." That's it in a nutshell.

[@PrettyWhiteLady]

I just experienced trying to get some support from an outside family member but my sister got to her before I did, so I got blamed as being the one who is the problem! Me and my drug addiction don't you know

[@ojuoluwanwoo]

Great 👍 👌 👍

[@Pentacost2033]

It's not wise to assume you have no problems just because the other persons are more apparent. It isn't a sign of a mentally well human to put up with abuse for no other reason than fear of being alone which I assume is the only reason someone would. That is something the individual who is with the narcissist needs to work on. There could even be an argument that the non narcissistic individual is enabling the narcissist by staying with them when they believe them to be a narcissist. At the end of the day most narcissists have ended up that way through trauma of their own. It seems people either respond to trauma by thinking they are better than everyone or worse than everyone. Narcissists are simply the former and most people who willingly stay with a narcissist are the latter, borderlines maybe I don't know. Fear of being alone is a terrible plague, peace is much more easily accessible when you don't have all the ins and outs of another person's baggage on top of your own.

[@kimhumiston2686]

They also try to convince others you are the problem.

[@PrettyWhiteLady]

@@Pentacost2033 peace is also not possible when you live alone, have been single all your life, and experience massive hours per day of OCD ruminating thoughts on all of the damaging behaviours, events and comments of a sister and father who are narcissists. So I can completely understand the fear of being alone with one thoughts, but I just never went that route. Maybe I would have experienced more peace if I had decided to have someone in my life, just preferably not a narcissist as you say. I only just realized that I had the capacity to kick these people out of my life a year ago. I should have done it much sooner and maybe I wouldn't have C-PTSD to this degree.

[@yalyssasg2035]

I used to be so carefree, fun, healthy (physically and mentally), sharp, witty, and genuinely happy. I've always struggled with anxiety, but I learned to control it before I met the narcissist. Being in a relationship with him heightened my anxiety to a new degree. I suffer from insomnia now, I'm overweight, I don't go out, I stopped doing the things I love. It's crazy. I just want myself back.

[@maryarchangel2131]

It will pass. Go 'no contact'. Healing will begin immediately.

[@Terra_Divina]

You will… and you went through this in order to help others! This is spiritual warfare on the personal level for each of us. God bless!

[@slimelove3493]

What I always wondered about is the weight gain? Why do those who experience narcissistic abuse tend to gain weight? What’s the emotional connection creating the physical weight

[@yalyssasg2035]

@@slimelove3493 i honestly don't know... I do know that personally I tend to overeat in times of dismay.

[@anitarogers2877]

​@@slimelove3493The stress hormone cortisol has women especially gain weight. The fight or flight mode, response, is on constantly. Hence the weight.

[@Hiphopfeevernewz]

When I realized I was bonding with someone who was traumatized for whatever reason I left the relationship. They will gas light you and have you thinking your the problem! They can’t take criticism! They never change! They lack cognitive dissonance. Leave immediately. They also seek out people who need them so they can control and mistreat you.

[@LaPinturaBella]

And when you set a boundary, not only will they ignore it, they rage at you for having the audacity to protect yourself. Or dismiss you altogether.

[@cathryncharette1224]

I still wake in the middle of the night after nightmares about my ex. Married 20 years, divorced 18, I still have PTSD. Profound grief at what he did to my life and how he treated our children. Verbal, psychological, financial and covert physical abuse (“accidental” shoving, bumping, foot stomping), gaslighting, chronic purposeful miscommunication, lies, hiding personal items and keys… I will never be the same careful hopeful person I was. Get out sooner than later, it won’t get better.

[@Nan-59]

Hi ❤. I was married 30 years when my daughter had to move back to the house for a month will my husband, her dad fixed the bathroom in her house. With Daughter being home during those weeks, she saw what was going on with new eyes. She came to me one night and said, it makes me very sad that you think you deserve to be treated this way. And said I wish you would’ve left dad when I was a little kid. I hope you’re hanging in there. The saddest part about my story is I stayed 30 years and then I still wanted to be married so once I loved him, it was four more years until we finally finalize the divorce. And that was because I wanted him to want me. But by that time he didn’t want to be with me anymore, even though I was the one that brought up getting divorced. My husband was/likely still is a sex addict and engaged with porn darn near 24/7. Anyway, I hope you and your kids are doing OK ❤❤✌🏻

[@charlenelayhew4811]

Your words are familiar to me. After 20 years I still have nightmares as well. Divorce was a sin, I was told,. so I stayed and stayed. I'm just trying to live my fee remaining years in peace. That's all I ask.

[@susannluckmann7705]

Also, Patrick Teahan. He experienced CPTSD first hand and, after realizing, became a social worker and a trauma therapist. I hope everybody who reads this post is getting better very soon and find peace in your hearts ❤🕊❤

[@AndiAndrea]

Oh, that’s similar to my experience. Married 20 years divorced three years and I am still suffering with nightmares and PTSD. I suppose it would be worse if we were still with out abusers, but damn, I thought it would be easier to “shake it off” sending you a hug - from one survivor to another.

[@BarbaraEMarshallCampbell]

I understand that you can't leave the damages and scars behind but it would be better for both of us if we could just leave the narcissists in our pasts. I have considered looking into having my memories scrubbed but I fear I'd lose memories of people who I don't want to lose in the process. I just want to be able to trust my personal judgement about others I let into my life again. I had little trust of others before him but I trusted myself, now after 20+ years since my last contact with him I still haven't started to trust my own intuition about others again. Sending healing thoughts and hugs your way.

[@suetipping4841]

I left my narcissist over 40 years ago. I never remarried; I raised two sons, was always employed well, and am now retired. My narcissist died last year at almost 80. His fifth wife committed suicide. She could have been me. Remember that, folks. If life is a contest, and I know it is not, I won.

[@sandyschneider6792]

My exe’s 3 rd wife “ supposedly “ committed suicide. I am 99 percent sure he offed her because she was bi-polar & inconvenienced him! People called me and said the same thing!

[@SwiftRabbit-w7g]

Oh boy.... I left my ex husband almost 13 years ago. I suspect he's just discarded his third "franchise" (as my partner of 11 years refers to his subsequent victims) I always said I was lucky. I could run away from him, but he cannot run away from himself. I'm glad you've found your peace 💗

[@charliebrown8678]

No way are u serious, it took that much of a toll on you? I wish I was there I'd give u a big hug, I guess I've always seen people in black and white good and bad but this is a whole new realm of evil and I don't want to be alone.

[@suetipping4841]

@@charliebrown8678 I'm serious as a heart attack. He ran after me with a knife, threatening to kill me one day. Very threatening and scary.. You learn to become a "dog", don't bark, don't ask for anything. You stay home for months at a time, never leaving the street. These people are monsters. Finally, he told me he had a new girlfriend, a stripper. I filed for divorce the next day, figuring he wouldn't kill me because he was busy How's that? See why I won? I am healthy and solvent and my granddaughters live down the street. My sons married nice girls. God is good. He did it.

[@jstanders6973]

​@@suetipping4841God bless you Sue, I hope all your days are happy and healthy 💐

[@pavla2055]

Narcissists have 'won' when we start asking ourselves what is wrong with us . They are exhausting in every way . Grinding you down is exactly what they do .

[@juliarussellkautt4748]

My sister said, “Stop asking why am I so lazy?” Instead ask, “Why does my body need so much rest?”

[@thothheartmaat2833]

well they won in 5th grade.. because thats when i started asking what i was doing wrong because everyone at school abused me every day and my parents told me it must be SOMETHING i was doing.. so i started to try to figure it out.. well i figured it out.. everyone else is a dumb abusive animal..

[@alicegharibjanians3151]

Possibly you were dealing with future narcs, starting out as bullies. The best they could do was to hurt kind kids, bc they are so weak and broken inside. Take care

[@pavla2055]

@@thothheartmaat2833 I think the human animal senses weakness in others and picks on them much as other animal species do . When we are already ground down with no self confidence others pick up on that and join in .I once heard someone say that people pick on each other like chickens - there doesn't have to be any reason for it . Stay Strong

[@LFMA7]

Indeed, so true, They are exhausting. They can suck the life out of you.

[@pantherstealth1645]

Having been with a narcissist, I’ve never felt more alone and in a black hole in my entire life. Everything being spoken in these videos is real and legit.

[@jennyblankenship1419]

Me too. We should probably consider getting some therapy. We have been abused mentally and emotionally.

[@SandraA535]

Yes so alone

[@Angels499]

For real. We must break with a narcissist it's not worth staying in the relationship.

[@EmmaCapps-iu2pm]

Been there,for decades was destroyed by a psychotic narcissist. 😢

[@marilynrose44]

I agree but I’m stronger then that narcissist thought even though it hurts but God is bigger than my pain and my heart was in the right place!

[@jolesliewhitten6545]

I escaped and worked hard to heal myself-no one can imagine what went on behind closed doors with narcissistic abuse.

[@stephl.r.6721]

Amen. Unfortunately as I am healing from 30 years being brainwashed, i still have some defensive behaviors that rear their ugly head. My daughter has turned dad's side of the family against me. Believe all her sad, pitiful lies that I did this and that to her. Late narcissist Dad did what he did and BECAUSE I ALLOWED it, I'm the bad one who deserves to be estranged from her.

[@jolesliewhitten6545]

@@stephl.r.6721 , very sorry. Healing takes time and patience. Best wishes.

[@thomasmcnerney9745]

@@jolesliewhitten6545 Oh yes we can imagine the abuse, both physically and mentally. The world is full of survivors...damaged, but survivors just the same.

[@Portia620]

Truths

[@lucrishamcallister410]

Omg, nobody knows how low I crawled the floor. So humiliating

[@elleng4876]

Dr. C. said, "They rob you of your own decency." That statement hit me hard. I'm embarrassed about and ashamed of the things I did to keep the peace. I was so lost and confused. I came to my senses when I couldn't stand myself another minute. I'm now free.

[@SurvivingNarcissism]

Your situation is exactly what I was talking about. Dr. C

[@cynthiaking5308]

Embarrassed and ashamed of the things I did to keep the peace. Even years after I left I feared he would show up and tell everyone my sins. He had issues with things that happened in the past, things I couldn’t change, and verbally assault me over and over again. Hear something enough you start to believe it.

[@ellengrace4609]

“I’m embarrassed about and ashamed of the things I did to keep the peace.” I hope you mean this as past tense and that you’re no longer embarrassed or ashamed. You were a victim of a master manipulator and have nothing to feel embarrassed or ashamed about. I didn’t have a name for it when I left my narcissist, but I knew I HAD to start putting my own happiness first. It took a year to have a name for it and several more years to understand narcissism and unravel the dysfunction. Nine years out as of now and finally feel mostly healed. I hope you are not only free from your narcissist but also free from the pain they caused you. ❤️

[@playalot8513]

@@ellengrace4609 Your comment gives me hope. It's 15 months since the narcissist left me and it feels like the pain is never going to end. Sometimes I look back and simply can't believe the things I did to keep the peace for my children's sake - in actual fact I was just being an enabler and it hurts so much to know I wasn't protecting my kids at all, by staying for all those years (27) I was actually just prolonging the abuse. I'm so happy he's gone but doing the healing work is so hard.

[@cynthiaking5308]

@@ellengrace4609 yes, i went thru therapy to finally get him to stay away, but the comment resonated with me. That was exactly why I stayed. Shame. I’ve never come across anyone phrase it like that, but that’s truly how I felt. It’s not nice, but helpful, that others felt that way in that situation. The way he would verbally beat me down, and the things i did trying to make him happy, there’s shame and embarrassment in that too. But that was before the internet and I learned that i was in charge of my life, not him. Was I addicted to the drama? Maybe. It was so long ago, thank God. I secretly think he wanted to get me pregnant so I’d be stuck with him. He didn’t know I was smart enough to go on birth control without telling him.

[@sgueymard]

“Malignant” and “Devil” are the key words to remember... Showing compassion towards narcissists is like adding fuel to a fire. They worsen, become "more and more evil." Escape like your life depends on it because it does.

[@SheLikesSteel]

There is such a thing as a malignant narcissist. They are dangerous individuals.

[@joeboxter3635]

We need to stop using the word narcissist and start using Sociopath Type 1. People think narcacism is good. Even some less knowledgeable psychologist will say there is nothing wrong with narcacism.

[@lauraJa777]

After 26 years of marriage, I can attest to that. They get worse and worse..... their viciousness is terrifying. I have actually seen his face change and his eyes become very darkened.

[@joeboxter3635]

@@lauraJa777 The only way that people are going to take victims seriously is if we stop calling it something innocuous like narcacist and call it what it really is ... A kind of sociopathy. When a shrink says they are a narcacist no one takes it seriously. They think so what, he is just full of himself and conceited. But victims know this person is not just full of himself. This person lacks empathy. Is a devious liar. And is vicious when crossed. Has an arsenal of manipulation tactics. And a legion of monkeys to assist. This person is not just stuck on himself.

[@zainabstewartstewart9585]

@@lauraJa777 Do you think as they get older maybe?

[@laurab257]

I divorced my narcissist in 2015, but we have four kids together. I can't escape. The torture that I have endured is more than most understand. They usually judge me, when really my dignity was stolen from me.

[@laurab257]

And now I am disordered...

[@Dwigt_Rortugal]

You are loved and you are worthy to be loved.

[@Ramon-gg3bd]

​@@laurab257for the sake of the children, do not let this break you. Learn to expect the unexpected. Try to be prepared, make a plan for yourself what you'll do, where are your limits. Collect evidence, write things down in a diary, for self-proptection. Stay in contact with others, like family. Share your stories.

[@homegown1234]

Try not to think about what people say or do - they have no clue what is like to be married to a narcissist.

[@ElizabethWildy]

Almost everyone here understands the abuses you have endured. They are DISGUSTING, empty demons.

[@mobwatch8119]

Looking back on the first years with this person, it was almost like being in a cult. They were on my mind 24/7 and instead of making room for family, friends, hobbies etc all I could worry about was not displeasing them, which was an impossible task. Thank you.

[@AfghanLand32]

Even more DIABOLICAL is the female Covert who fools you long enough to have children with you for the purpose ⚓ you down. I worry everyday about the emotional health of my precious, innocent children in the care of this DEVIL. ALL OF THESE DEMONIC NARCISSIST ARE GOING TO FACE ULTIMATE JUDGMENT ONE DAY.

[@tamasitarod3176]

Your words are what I felt 5 years ago. Stayed in relationship for 3 years. We wasted so much precious time, and life because of them..❤

[@tolgaatalay8044]

Gaslighting and brainwashing. Vile people who behave like this

[@houseplantnerd2872]

Wow, yet another ideal analogy. That's really gross actually because it is so applicable. Wow. Geesh.

[@leanna107]

It's interesting you mentioned this because I just commented asking if it is possible to get this from a religion (or cult) as I had felt being a very involved member in my youth and young adult life. I now look at it with several years of disassociation under my belt and just feel deep understanding of why my experience felt the way that it did.

[@prant8998]

Trauma bond, comes from the push pull, “splitting,” the narcissist does. If the narcissist was always abusive, the victim could easily leave and never look back. It’s the good parts of the narcissist that keeps the victim engaged. The narcissist knows this intuitively, and acts according. They give out doses of niceness and then when the time is right, are abusive or even have a complete rage/tantrum. My little love bunny would wait until we were on vacation, or in a car for a trip. They love to disappoint you, then observe your reaction. It makes them feel good, it’s just that simple. I think, just writing this, that it’s all about them having revenge for something that happened to them a long time ago you had nothing to do with. So, for everyone out there, the empaths, who give their partner a million chances, demand respect, and love yourself. When you finally leave, and you will, think of the reaction the narcissist will have, and smile.

[@pdemont8854]

Awesome post. So true. Thanks

[@GalickGon]

The part of taking revenge for something we never did to them, that hurt because it really is like that.

[@fionamackellar7048]

Very true. The constant see sawing of affection then aggression is exhausting 😴

[@SammifromMiami]

This describes my relationship.

[@thenewyorkcitizen]

They love destroying birthdays and holidays and anything that you value. They are not fixable. Run and never look back.

[@saturationstation1446]

anyone else get traumatized just from hearing how perfectly accurate this stuff is for your situation?

[@christineleader4647]

Yes- I feel grief for all the lost years and opportunities to find true love. I'm 63 and hope it's not too late.

[@margiestephens7281]

Yeah, like being "down wind" from a skunk

[@HeartFeltGesture]

Yes, as Im sure youre aware, we have to hear it and bear it, the truth hurts but heals. We didnt expect demons to emotionally con us into submission, because we didnt know the world was full of hate, fear and anxiety.

[@theryanatomy]

Not anymore.

[@ritaking8827]

Yes! When I first started watching these videos I was shocked! It was an eye opener and it was devastating! I thought I was worthless and nothing. He made me want to just be dead. I already felt like the walking dead anyway. It’s still taking me years to get to the point that I don’t need his opinion. To stop thinking there will ever be this deep meaningful relationship between us. I’m working, on getting myself to a point, that I can work on getting independent. A few more weeks I will have a working car, I’m looking at two surgeries that I have put off for years because of his bad health... his needs came first. Baby steps that feel like huge Giant leaps! I’m fighting now with feeling ashamed of myself for falling for this behavior. I’m devastated. I’m so broken. I’m mad! I see a light at the end of all of this mess. I’m not losing sight of that. I’m climbing out, with Gods help and these blessed Videos.

[@emmarae4322]

The manipulation is so insidious and done so quietly you don’t see it fully until you are out.😢 It’s all about control. Dr. C, you are such a caring man. You are comforting to listen to.❤

[@HS-ev4nw]

It was my mother who did this. The rest of the family supported her and I was drowning for decades. Now I know how why I felt like being me was impossible but once you see the light you have to get out of the darkness.

[@angelapitts2123]

@@adamweidl5812 you go 100% NO CONTACT!! I did this with my mother the years ago. I feel amazing now

[@CenterTransformation]

I was affected this way by my mother and some of my family members for nearly my entire life .

[@alexandranunkisahriarti1979]

I tought I was the only one with Narcistic Mother ...🤪😰

[@jocelynstewart1186]

My mother too and then this last man became one in the same

[@motorcityblacksheep121]

Took me 50 years to figure it out, and no contact is truly the only way to find peace, happiness and a life YOU WANT.

[@treysteinberger1457]

Im a 24 year old man and this video brought me to tears. I feel so gullible and easy to let someone so evil control me. This video helps the healing process thank you.

[@SurvivingNarcissism]

Hi Trent, You're at a time in life when you get to lay a solid foundation, defining who you want to be. Learn from what you have experienced and keep leaning forward. You are why I do these videos! Dr. C. #TeamHealthy

[@Cowboogie]

Hey Trent! Your comment stirs a whole host of emotions up in me and I feel the need to respond. As Dr. Carter expressed, learn all you can and carry it through your life without the blinders on. From one man to another- I wish I had not trudged through over 20 years involved in this situation and the damage it’s caused after learning too late what I was immersed in. I wish I could be 24 like yourself again and find out at that age and that early into my adult life. Please don’t let yourself be played into this situation and live a happy meaningful life with someone who will love you wholeheartedly! Most importantly love yourself first by setting the boundaries and standards in which you live. Demand the respect of not crossing those lines and those that do cut them out of your life and move forward. At my 24 in 2004 this was all happening but rarely verbalized or discussed as thoroughly as it is today so I lived it hard knock like millions of others have also. They’ll all agree with what I’m saying so take heed and carry knowledge as you live your life young man without the toxicity and destruction it’s caused so many that’s come before you. You don’t want to look up one day and realize you wasted your love and resources on someone whose I love you was as hollow and empty as a blown soap bubble. Be well and Godspeed!

[@stringbender3]

It means your a good person. If you could easily be psycho or narcissistic back you wouldn’t fall for it or couldn’t easily ignore it. But your a good person. Once learnt and strong enough they will run for the hills and cowar like roaches in the light and youigjt not even notice them any more bc they only prey on ppl they know they can.

[@palapalak.8907]

It's like a full time job for them.

[@treysteinberger1457]

@@Cowboogie its been over 3 months since the relationship and reading this. I always came back read this and it’s helped a lot. Thank you for sharing I really appreciate everyone responding!!

[@laurastylski5962]

I just got out of a 4 year relationship with a narcissist. He was never threatening or dangerous, but it was constant lying, mind games, and manipulation. By the end I had zero self worth, had suicidal thoughts, and truly felt like I was just an unlovable piece of garbage. I was in therapy, taking anxiety/depression medication, reading books, listening to podcasts, and watching youtube videos about how to fix my relationship and how to change myself basically into a completely different person. I thought I could make the relationship work if only I could learn how to handle his behavior better. I thought it was my fault. I literally did everything I could possibly do and it still wasn't enough. One day I finally woke up and realized it wasn't me who needed fixing. Dear god, I beg you to pay attention to the red flags and those gut feelings early on. Save yourself the heartache of loving a person like this. I am still broken.

[@authenticme5708]

Covert Narcissists are dangerous. When their masks fall off we realize we have fallen in love with ourselves, they just don't have what it takes to make a relationship healthy. Glad you saw your worth and value and got out🎯❤️

[@ramonabanker277]

You WILL heal!

[@evangelinewilliams1412]

This was my life as well

[@melissadixon4091]

You are broken until you say otherwise beloved now begin today to say otherwise! If you don’t know who God made you to be then today is a perfect day to learn that, not who the enemy threw in your way! Mine lasted about 4 years too, I’ve been out for about 7. It gets better and easier the more you share and receive authentic love.

[@melissadixon4091]

@@authenticme5708 wow! “When we realize we have fallen in love with ourselves!”That couldn’t be more spot on as he exemplified all that I wanted but interestingly enough, it was a bunch of mirroring and then taking that “mirroring” to a whole new level. Great insight!

[@n.l.legault458]

35 years... my entire adult life...sobbing as I watch this.

[@TheNeen9]

❤️🙏🏾

[@peanut1001x]

why didn't you leave then

[@adedotunajibade]

Take heart

[@joyanngoddard2033]

I hope you can realize your value and beauty and belovedness. 🙏

[@daisyrelaxedsounds]

❤ and much to live for 🫶🏽 Take care of yourself and be patient with yourself. Sending love and peace 💕

[@rauxieswisdom3102]

I used to think there was something so hideous about me, that no one could love me. Then, I learned about who and what a narcissist is. Complete game changer. I am a work in progress with healing pouring in , like never before! Much gratitude!♥️

[@jdanielzuk]

Keep up the good work, you're beautiful!

[@carolhiland9197]

Me too ❤️

[@PITTSBURGH06]

THEY ARE THE PIECES OF SHIPS-NOT YOU-YOU WERE ALWAYS ENOUGH!

[@opopopop6286]

So that ol narco became your TEACHER/TOOL, what a big surprise (jk)...I have LOADS of experience too, so I KNOW :)

[@opopopop6286]

can you imagine failing to ever meet someone like your parent(s) again in order to open up those wounds again so YOU could CHOOSE healing and balance as an adult...you could of remained broken (codep is the equal opposite of the personality disorder of narcissism) until your dying days...

[@evelina787]

“A narcissist paints a picture of themselves as being the victim or innocent in all aspects. They will be offended by the truth. But what is done in the dark will come to light. Time has a way of showing people’s true colors.” - Karla Grimes

[@aneatasewell8525]

Oh please promise me that's the truth ... Even if it isn't! Hope springs eternal.

[@freedomdude5420]

Do you wanna see a family members true colors, find out which member is dying and watch what happens?

[@evelina787]

@@freedomdude5420 i know, so extremely sd but true Why this hppens i just don't know or will never understnd

[@freedomdude5420]

@@evelina787 they want your money, there vultures. They’re the type of family members that hover over their dying ones just get the scrap in their wallets, it’s disgusting. These are the kind of individual sad to say, that should get a good Awad diddly squat, nothing, just for the fact what they’re doing and more importantly, should never be on the will, yeah, they’re gonna be angry, but they know why. I know we could be all little narcissistic, we all understand that, the real issue is if they had it their way they would stab the family member and take their money.

[@evelina787]

@@freedomdude5420 yes God bless you Thnks for your enlightenment A prominent nrcissist in our life, is never ever happy, no mtter what you do which he demnds Jobs he wishes done which aren't necessry he mkes me pay for & never even sys Thank you So ignorant, hurtful n demnding Ins@ti@ble Forever mkes you feel you've done something wrong I'm not joking, when i s@y,,,even for coughing or opening a sweet The noise of a packet opening sends him into a rage They can never be (@dmit they're) wrong, even when proven they are Others tell me, he isn't just a nrcissist but a sociopth @swell, bec@use he fully not only intends to be evil, but gets hppiness out of upsetting them 🙄😔&recounts these moments over n over God bless you & thnks again 🕊️🍀🙏

[@AedanGUnit]

I had both emotional and physical reactions. My hands shook and my insides felt jittery along with the emotional pain of being duped and losing my ability to trust. They are so dangerous and destructive to anyone who cares for them and trusts them, R U N, you will recover, even though it initially feels as if you just want to crawl off to a dark corner. Fight for your freedom, you’re worth it.

[@MayJunemom]

Yes...RUN. Trust your gut!

[@laurelmarshall6903]

I too had SHAKY HANDS! For decades. (It was brought on by a TBI from a bike accident when I was a teenager;but... 'Everything' was the exactly same as the writer. No Contact Sandy Williams has stated above, 2 days ago!! Incredible. Amazing how this "vampires" (Narcs) with smiling faces can be SUCH a DRAG on one's very Life. They'll try to suck you dry (imho anyways). My Dad died in 2017 & I've been working on recovering my 'Self' since that time. It's been slow. It's my own reality though & that feels pretty darn good most of the time.

[@dawgmaw]

I'm in my 70's and my hands still shake. Controllers reek havoc on the nervous system.

[@HD-mg9ru]

I was traumatized so bad as a child that at the age of 8 I started having seizures in my sleep. The seizures came from stress. Every time I walk away I do so well and I feel so good about myself. Then they approach me. I get such bad anxiety it turns into full blown panic attacks. Yes run!!! The triggers are the worst!

[@watchesnews9187]

"Claim your freedom."

[@Jay-pj5tg]

Does anyone struggle with the fear that I am a narcissist? I feel like I've been manipulated and put down soo many times, and they ended up making me feel like im a terrible person, but my other friends have never made me feel that way

[@ADG247]

No you are not the issue. The narcissist makes you feel that way. Keep your real friends as a reference base.

[@Ramon-gg3bd]

The fact that you are digging to find out, that you are introspectively looking for answers, means you are not. Maybe you have some flaws, some properties you are not fully proud of. Maybe you have stood up for yourself and feel a bit bad about it. That's all normal.

[@AshleyMagirl]

I can relate to this. My partner has repeatedly accused me of being a narcissist, having a dark side, being something that I know I am not. Makes me question everything I know to be true about myself. It’s maddening and there have been times when I think I am absolutely crazy.

[@ADG247]

@@AshleyMagirl lean on your friends and don’t let your partner isolate you. That’s really what they want so they control even better

[@matthewstiles353]

I avoided learning about this for so long, thinking I wouldn't like what I learned about myself. This is what gaslighting can do to you.

[@Aphidnae]

"They grind you into the ground." That's exactly what I'm feeling years later. They grind you into the ground to show you who is in control. I happily avoid meeting him anywhere in public places, never mention him to anyone, but deep inside I'm still scared. Still asking myself if it was all my fault and how I could have been so naive. These people change you forever.

[@cherylsimmons8194]

I definitely agree! Heartbreaking what we allowed them to do to us. ☹️

[@pambeni5635]

I never heard of trauma bonding before. Wow does it hit the mark! I fell into the pit of narcissistic tendencies hook line and sinker. I came into this relationship with so much love for him. I had my 8 year old son. He had 2 kids living at home at the time. His 2 eldest daughters were living with their mother. His eldest daughter is just like her father. It took the death of my father and son to realize I am a victim of his thinking. I did everything for him and the kids plus a full time job to boot. I felt I was worthless,ugly, stupid, unloveable. The list goes on. When my son died at 34 I ended up seeking help and did so for a long time. I had to quit due to finances. This was where I learned of his unacceptable behaviour. Took me a long time to come to terms with him. I left our home and moved back to my mom’s as she needed help. I told my husband that if he would go to counselling I would come back. That was 8 years ago. He just wouldn’t go. My mom is gone. She had made arrangements for me to live in her home as long as I needed. I am trying to work on myself to get back to normal but my self esteem is down the toilet. I have no other family to turn to except for my husband’s sister. I don’t want to burden her as she is close to 90. I am in my mid 70’s and my husband is 85. She is so good to me. I am exhausted now. You. Have all dealt with the same issues as I so you understand. I can’t go on.

[@alessandraw.]

@@pambeni5635 Hang in there Pam, take very good care of yourself.. may you find peace, hope, and recover your energy.. sending blessings and wishes for your healing 🌿

[@evespector3972]

@@pambeni5635 I'm so sorry for all that you have had to endure. You are not alone. Please hold on. You are worth it and deserve some peace and happiness.

[@BarbaraEMarshallCampbell]

Sending peace, love, joy, and empathetic compassion your way Pam, with a virtual hug. (*)

[@karenpapas5045]

One strategy I used to move on from a toxic relationship that I would like to share with you is to write a list on your phone of all the bad things he did and red flags You didn’t see and read them every time You feel vulnerable and feel the urge to call him to get back to him. After reading the notes you will feel good ridden and motivated to pull yourself up. It really works. Best of luck to all

[@anitacarrier9386]

This is great advice, i know when I ised to think about what he did to me I would literally wipe my memories, so it wouldn't hurt anymore. After 8 and half years I've finally reached a point where I see everything he did, his stratagies and that the issue is with him not me. This realisation as helped me alot. Irony is this very memories that used to hurt me and weaken me, by writing them out will be the very thing that keeps me strong when he tries to hoover me back in, so thank you.

[@Brittaba]

I do this, too. Only thing that works to remind myself of how angry I should be & to stay away from him!

[@hiskid431]

I'm in the process of doing the same thing. I just signed the lease for an apt and hubby doesn't know. I'm slowly taking some essentials there when he isn't looking, but the trauma bond is so strong.

[@JD-jz8vl]

Yes! I wrote the list and it helps, I read it regularly

[@BEazy234]

Great advice! I did this while in the relationship. Started putting notes in my phone of the constant episodes she was having. Was only married to her for 9 months but within 5 months I already wrote down 30 bizarre situations she was going through and projecting all her issues on me. It really took a huge toll on me. I walked a few months later. I never knew mental illness like this existed.

[@whygohome172]

My dad, literally drove my mom to a nervous breakdown. She was catatonic at one point and then put on meds for the rest of her life just to be able to endure the narcissist. She wasn't strong enough to get out.

[@SteeleMagnolia]

I'm so sorry for your poor mom, and for the family having to witness what your dad did to her. My situation was the opposite, where my narcissistic mother sent my dad to an early grave, at the age of 58. She is a hateful, controlling witch, and I pray that she suffers the same torment for the remainder of her miserable life.

[@us4damons]

My god, mine too.. drove her to alzheimer disease in her 50s. She died in a nursing home 2017 at he age of 70..my dad brought his new girlfriend in to see her and she stopped eating after that and died 14 days later. She lived in hell. I wish I had known then so I could have supported her😔

[@SteeleMagnolia]

@@us4damons Your father is a hateful man, and so terribly heartless to bring his girlfriend to a visit. I'm so sorry for the loss of your mother, and I hope that you have nothing further to do with your father. My own narcissistic mother will be 81 this year. The old saying of "Only the good die young, and the evil will live forever" is for her, as she contaminates this our planet with her toxins. Went nc a few years ago, for the final time, and it has been a tremendous relief for my soul.

[@us4damons]

@@SteeleMagnolia I have not had a relationship for my dad for about 5 years. We weren't super close for a long time anyway. But honestly, growing up, he was a really good dad. I honestly have no complaints about what kind of dad he was but I see now after my own experience with a narcissist , what a terrible husband he was

[@tabbylivvy]

So sad!!!

[@Mad.ISNT.oN89]

watching this quietly in his room, crying silently. Everything, every single thing he said is my life right now. i feel like he sought me out,like i had 'vulnerable" right on my forehead. i feel so lost in this vortex of his ...shit

[@roqbluffs]

I'm sorry I know the feeling

[@darlenerego4891]

I am 85 years old and I never knew what Trauma Bonding was until now!! Thank you Dr. Les Carter!!

[@SurvivingNarcissism]

You're quite welcome...keep learning!

[@smallhouseinthemeadow6131]

It's never too late to be happy❤

[@matthewmiller3920]

A few things from the perspective of someone who has been through this. The number one thing to remember is that the narcissist chose you to begin with because it was so obvious to them that you are a decent person. They choose people who are kind and loving and patient and loyal and true to their word. These are precisely the qualities that they use against you. The other thing to remember is that the narcissist is an exporter of their internal state. All the pain and the chaos and the feelings that you will experience when the trauma bond after leaving the narcissist are their feelings. The guilt and shame that you feel, that is their normal state that is projected and exported onto you. By realizing this, it goes back to them. Lastly please understand that processing the trauma bond mirrors the intermittent reinforcement that created it, so there will be good days when you feel great happy and you enjoy being free from this person and there will be days when you feel angry and bitter and you want revenge and and there will be days when you desperately want that person to come back and give you that fake future that was always just out of reach. Stay strong. It is a truly horrible experience. It takes roughly one month per year to process. For every year that you were in this relationship roughly one month of healing is needed. 7 year relationship = 7 months to heal, give or take. The last thing is that they need you more than you need them. You have actually had all the power all along, they just tricked you into believing otherwise. Love is not supposed to hurt. You are beautiful and they are blind. You deserve to be loved for real. Do your healing and get comfortable being alone, otherwise this cycle will likely repeat itself.

[@abrilherrera231]

Thank you. I needed that tonight🥲

[@dberrya]

Thank you

[@Gedankenful]

Thank you.

[@paulelliott3361]

I appreciate everything you just said my dude. However, I’d like to add something to your bit about the timing: this healing time may not be consecutive and will be stuck on pause if you don’t hit the play button. The connection isn’t all that great and sometimes it needs some time to buffer

[@susanl698]

Well said!!! Bang on!!! And how I needed this reminder today. May God bless you.💞

[@leeoconnor123]

Always remember, you don't have to be in a relationship at all, with anyone. You can heal on your own. Difficult but possible.

[@meganbrewster5984]

Agree

[@cassiebennet4262]

People are conditioned to believe that they HAVE to be in a romantic relationship with someone. While it's perfectly normal to want to share life's intimate little details with another, victims of abuse are going to continue the abuse cycle if they don't work healing themselves first.

[@jannelson4946]

We could fall in love with ourselves? Date nights & all. Have some fun w/it✌️

[@vaska1999]

​@@jannelson4946That's literally what Narcissus, after whom we get the term narcissistic, did.

[@teresachapman205]

@jannelson4946 I love not being in a relationship. Too many dysfunctional ones our there nowadays. Gotta be careful

[@survivorchristine2900]

23 years of it. Finally throwing in the towel. I’m so broken but I took myself back to church and getting the help I obviously need. Never again.

[@mgyver2003]

Be careful at church I've ran into some doozys of covert narcissists there. My parents were jerks outside of church and the nicest folks you've ever met in church. I've been no contact for 5 years and it's fantastic

[@Dixiegal64]

I stayed 35 years for my children. The first opportunity I had I left and cut off contact. 8 years later he still finds things to sue me to upset me. He got engaged while we were separated and married 3 weeks after our divorce.(with judges permission) of course our friends never knew how bad it was because he had a duel personality that led others to believe he was a wonderful husband and father. All I need to say is all our children no longer speak to him and he has zero access to our grandchildren. He can no longer damage our days with the burden of his toxicity. I hope everyone gets the courage to leave and know it’s not you. It’s them.

[@terilangrall3660]

I understand the duel personality. My SIL calls me to see how everyone is, I talk to her in a civil way and not get to personal. As soon as I mention one little thing … she doesn’t want to talk about her baby brother bc no matter what he does he’s alway going to be baby brother! My husband acts so different to everyone else just to make it look like I’m the problem. 2 of my kids understand my side but my oldest will talk to my husband for hours. I’m ready to make this call happen for me and the sake of my kids.

[@jumanabharmal880]

I agree to this noone knows about them as they put up a different face in front of others

[@GrungyPisces]

I’m terrified my child will be like him if he’s around him. I’d love to know that my son will see what’s happened and want nothing to do with him one day too.

[@nobs8533]

Hugs

[@Thegoldenchild415]

It's funny how it's always women saying these things for the most part. Maybe YOU were the problem.. just a thought?

[@zyklonlee]

This hit home for me. I spent 10 years in a relationship with a narcissist. I lived far away from family and friends and i was completely at her mercy. And nobody took me seriously when i reached out for help as she was half my size. Once i finally got the strength to leave, after making the choice between leaving or suicide, the abuse went up to 10 in a last ditch attempt to break me. Now far away from her i have my self esteem and confidence back and see her for the weak bully she is. "if you are going through hell - keep going".

[@QuiDocetDiscit]

Stupid people don't realize it's got nothing to do with physical size...it's about psychological / emotional abuse. The thing about Narc abuse is that it is a dog whistle that only YOU can hear. When you try to explain yourself to others, they won't validate you and you have now been subjected to the secondary abuse of their ignorance. Be careful who you talk to. "Only those who live in the house know where the roof leaks." Outsiders don't really know or care and they may even defend the abuser because because she is such a "nice" person....to them.

[@lurklingX]

my brother is in a similar situation (only my mom and i area aware of what she is). i hope he can find the strength too because im afraid it will kill him one way or another. if only there wasn't a child involved......................... : (

[@zyklonlee]

@@lurklingX Good luck to him, once that first step has been made he will feel a weight lift.

[@yossarianreborn2904]

I feel you Bro

[@debrawalters9746]

@@QuiDocetDiscit Your words are true, however I disagree with the name calling. I hope you learn that every person on earth is on their own journey. That journey is often full of pain. We all need to be more kind and loving with each other.

[@taraanndonohue5606]

I had a mother who was a sadistic, child abusing narcissist. She ruthlessly and systematically opened the flood gates for every other abusive narcissist to pick apart my open wounds. By sheer will to live and help from other survivors, I will be 54 years old next month. 🌟

[@phoenixrising4147]

Be encouraged.. thanks for sharing

[@jillevans4586]

tara. ann, i love you. good on you for educating others. enjoy your life free

[@sandramcgaughy5255]

I get your pain…they are evil!

[@markmiller9163]

I know exactly how you feel. Walked away from my mother, brother and sister last June. I'm 64 and will not go back ...ever.

[@rppope1006]

Wow, I had the same experience. I remember going all the way back to about 5 years old when she started her abusive. She was so jealous of how successful I was set out to be and how much other people liked me that she tried to kill me. She truly is of the devil. Literally no body likes her and God has already shown me that where she is going is a far different place from me I'm going after we expire. She even made my father drink himself to death. Family, do not get in relationships with narcs, they will ruin everything with joy. It's a damn shame

[@dinekevinke3384]

So beautifully said; to become a person of peace! That is what I am experiencing lately. That I am recieving peace in area's instead of trouble!

[@Shredlordaxell]

You can tell you love what you do. 17 days ago I left my narc. And we are at a DV shelter. I was sad and down the first week. But I feel so free now. It really is liberating to break free from the negative toxic person.

[@SurvivingNarcissism]

Best wishes to you, Dakota. FYI, prior to retiring, I volunteered (cooking weekend breakfast) for a women's shelter for years, and it was so rewarding. Glad you're getting help!

[@emilycomerford9048]

I've been there myself, keep your head up! You've taken an amazing first step towards a better life. You deserve this freedom, you deserve this peace, you deserve to be happy!

[@lisamcintyre9832]

I hope you stay strong and keep moving forward. As a survivor, I recommend therapy so you don’t find yourself in the same situation again.

[@_space.pony_]

From someone who’s been there, you are only headed upwards now!! Fly birdy

[@N0p3er5]

I'm happy you are out! I remember the first day of my escape I couldn't stop smiling at everyone because I could.

[@ChanelThomas248]

My marraige felt like a nightmare I couldn’t get out of. I was one of those people who just walks out of the house w nothing. One day I picked up my purse and my chihuahua and got in my car and left w nothing and NEVER returned. I had to start rebuilding all my household goods from Goodwill but it was worth it to get my freedom.

[@jimstenlund6017]

Good job💪🏻

[@BurningQuestion]

Proud of you! That takes guts!

[@Simba______]

I'm glad that you took your Chihuahua too.

[@emira5009]

Me to. I only took my wallet.

[@MsPippi2011]

Maybe I’m really in a sad state of affairs here but I’ve had my car keys, wallet and phone ‘confiscated’ for even thinking about leaving and I don’t even have a job anymore. He’s so demanding I can’t balance a job and his needs according to him.

[@Avivmirkin]

My father is a true narcissist and my mother has many narcissistic qualities without realizing it. I realise now that I was never the problem, and hopefully I can keep reminding myself that.

[@idontknowmuch3441]

Stay strong. It’s so hard to undo years of brainwashing but you can do it.

[@nunyabiznes3901]

It’s really hard to remember, though. That feeling that you’re going to be in trouble for every single little thing you do is so hard to shake.

[@raphaellavictoria01]

Hear hear! I feel the same, same situation. Nevertheless, their opinions are deeply ingrained in my own mind, and underneath it all, they will never leave me.

[@katherineirons6245]

Same here, they are both finally gone now….

[@PM-bk1ry]

I refused to looked into videos, cause the word narcissist has always been screamed at me, so even the word I resented.... I am very thankful I learn of your videos, and know there is a real disorder out there with people that act this way. Thank you for your work.

[@nathanbrady8529]

I wish this stuff was more mainstream in psychology. Imagine being completely devastated by these kinds of people, going to therapy, and being taught you needed to be respectful and accepting of the behavior. I think therapy screwed me up worse than she did.

[@nunyabiznes3901]

Uhhh…what? Sounds like you had a terrible therapist!

[@wanttobeasage2952]

I am so sorry. Their manipulations work, because even educated people can't accept the evil.

[@raphaellavictoria01]

yes, you are right. Be careful with therapy: narcissism, the real kind, is not taught e.g. in psychiatry. I'm a psychiatrist, so I know. (though psychiatrists rarely do therapy). But, on the other hand, you need to understand what made you vulnerable, thus what changes you may need to make in yourself. Never forget that therapy is NOT massage therapy: it's not there to make you feel good, it's more like physiotherapy for a broken arm. It's gonna hurt, and its purpose is to work on yourself. A real therapist is not there to massage your ego. If you want to change yourself, then you go for therapy. Otherwise, letting sleeping dogs lie is a valid option.

[@nathanbrady8529]

@@raphaellavictoria01 Any advice on how to find a therapist capable of addressing this stuff? I have no doubt I need help, but no idea where to turn. Maybe I'm beyond hope, I'm just that disordered I'm incapable of grasping the concepts. For example: Let's say there's a small rubber ball covered in green felt. I would say it's a tennis ball. Another person says it's a tire iron. I understand both realities are equally valid since truth is subjective, but I can't wrap my head around why.

[@anielakowzan9113]

Yes, this is fairly new, all the in-depth understanding of various types of narcissistic dynamics. I have looked at years back and only now, enlightened by such as Dr. Carter or Dr. Ramani, do I recognize patterns of behavior in people I came across that would astound me, or revolt me but I did not know how to understand and place them. Well, better late than never, right? Unfortunately all sorts of specialists out there, even if licensed, are not that good. Sorry for your poor experience with counselors. I wish you all the best unraveling these challenges and good health and happiness to you ! Above all do not give up :-))

[@ChardeeMacdennis339]

The saddest and most difficult part of having been in one of these relationships is that I used to be such a spirited and free person. I was fun and confident. He broke me and even though it’s been years I don’t think I’ll ever be who I once was. It breaks my heart. What I wouldn’t give to be that person again. But I really fear that she’s just gone. I’ve done a lot of healing for sure. But I’ll never be the same 💔

[@decoy2636]

Love that little girl inside you and keep healing survivor

[@northofyou33]

I left my narc husband 20 years ago, and I'm still not over it. Probably because my mother was a narcissist. Between the two of them, my own nature was obliterated. I am only finding myself now, after years of therapy and 12 step groups. It's rough.

[@Paula-yy8cz]

God bless you. I'm trying so hard to get away from this sick "situation", I can't even call it a "relationship" anymore... even though we've been together for so long and raised (well, at least I raised..) two children! I only wish I knew about all this years ago....I knew it wasn't right, but always tried to believe that it could get better... what a fool I was!! I hope and pray for an apartment soon... it won't be easy, with my med. probs., but I can only pray it will be more peaceful and I can have some time (before I leave this earth) to BE HAPPY and do what I want to do and just to LIVE IN PEACE!! 👍➕🦋☮️🐎🙏❤️🌹👋

[@letitoutwithajacolon2225]

I feel the exact same way 😢

[@teeare2367]

I recently celebrated my 48th birthday and for the past 4 years, have been rebuilding every aspect of my life. I wasted over 15 years (only married 5, but he left after 3) with a demonic, physically abusive sociopath. The only thing I can add to your relatable comment is the shame I feel, as an educated, intelligent woman, for allowing his treatment. I wish you the best!

[@artificial-alex01101]

It's so much worse when the narcissist is your parent. I reached adulthood believing that cruelty was a normal aspect of relationships. I don't think I could fully heal from what happened to me in 10 lifetimes but at least I have gone no contact with that monster.

[@snowqueen24]

I'm sorry to hear that. I learned that I will never escape my narcissistic mother, no matter how much money I make at my job. I'm the only person that is going through this. No one in general knows what it's like to not have enough finances to move out in a home of their own by themselves. I don't know if you felt this way, but this is how I'm feeling right now.😞

[@Bianca-sw5id]

I am in the exact same place as you , but my sick mom and stepdad got a court order to lock my loss of income into a Curator ad Bonis , and they dictate to the Curator ad Bonis what I shouldn't have more of , my circumstances are inhumane and I have been held hostage by them , from living a life of my own , because the constitution of South Africa is oppressive so I have nowhere to get help from and no way of leaving South Africa , either

[@snowqueen24]

@@Bianca-sw5id Oh, wow. I didn't realize that.🙁

[@donpablo8775]

i am right there with ya bud. Its plan awful in a way words cant tell. And when i hit finical trouble that's when it got plan sick. Living in a place were i know no one and only my parents to ask for help, gave them the full power they craved to just destroy my life. Now im kinda kept hostage in my home and i pray to god this ends soon..... but yea its really really damn tuff and for 5 of the 8 years iv lived were i am.

[@kjsfl386]

When both my narc parents died, especially my dad…I felt safe and free

[@Triple265]

I have become a hermit, avoiding contact with anyone... i used to be happy, confident - but i even ended up leaving my nursing career because i had nothing left to give.... i wish i had known the narc traits years ago, would have saved my soul a lot of pain..... thank you for these videos🙏

[@sandrarollins3435]

This describes my whole marriage! I was looking for a loving relationship & instead got 50 years of this trauma bonding. Now, I am ME , with no shame. Noone has my permission to disrespect ME ever again. 👍

[@BroscienceXpert]

Sandra Rollins After 50 years of confusion and trauma how did you manage to find the courage to leave? What was the catalyst?…. It’s been 45 years … and still stuck.

[@sandrarollins3435]

@@BroscienceXpert I tried to leave. I had a nervous breakdown, so I stayed. I have my own sitting room, mI you the 2nd bath in the house, I slowly learned to not REACT to his verbal abuse. When I sense it starting I leave the area . I practiced social distancing before the pandemic. I demanded he respect me. I am a born again Christian & I KNOW who I am in Jesus. My husband's smear campaign doesn't define me. The xt6 in the driveway is mine too. 😉

[@annaolausson6862]

❤️

[@sandrarollins3435]

To Billy Rae: the unconditional love of God via Jesus Christ does help. I already have my God's approval and I don't need anybody else's. I am have unloaded the burdens the toxic relationship gave me, I gave them to Jesus. I have a warm ring of Christian friends plus my extended church family. Learn NOT TO REACT to the narcissistic acts. Don't even see him when you are in the same room...like you do a wall. Don't carry a chip around, because you'll be the one hurt, not them.

[@helenford372]

You lasted 5more years than me. Free at last!

[@eurokay4755]

The sadness and anger that sets in when you finally realize that all those confusing, unsettling and shame-inducing memories from childhood were narcissistic red flags. . .

[@graftedinforever971]

This is spot on. I was married to an abusive narcissist for 18 years. He destroyed every relationship I had. I can't even explain the depth . We had been divorced for 13 years and even though I had moved to get away from him, he continued to make my life miserable. When he died my very first thought was "Oh good. Now I can have some peace now.". And I have. I am still working to repair the damage he did to my relationship between our daughter and I. The man was nothing but hate, venom and poison.

[@tarahumphry9884]

I say the same thing about my ex. I can’t wait til the day you die so I never have to deal with you ever again.

[@AdorableDeplorable711]

We've been living the same life simultaneously and I wanted to tell you I'm glad to see you on the other side. Let's have a laugh together sometime.

[@terrigelbaum8066]

They don't care how much pain they cause. Not one bit. Mine would sit in his office and calculate,'What else can I take away from her".

[@hermionegardener3796]

...some people have all the luck.

[@dancer49lives6]

@JennyGirl, Please get out of there any possible way you can. I know how you feel, this has happened to me too. Ask a DV shelter to let you come stay and don't go back!

[@StephTellnTruth]

This was my mom andmy dad. My mom was like an innocent sweet kind angel and my dad was unable to participate in any relationship unless he could FULLY control you. My mom spent her whole life as a doormat and my dad would control every single thing about her and us his children. I ended up with zero self esteem, in relationships with men I would never ask for anything or think I was deserving of anything, I had alot of self hatred and rejection. I realized that also in relationships with men if there was ever an issue or conflict I would adjust and change myself until there was nothing left of me. It took 20 years of walking with God to heal myself and wake up to the fact that I was very emotionally sick in the way I related to men and even myself. God had to undo the lies and help me create boundaries and help develope self worth for myself and heal. Its incredible what 1 person can destroy in another. But God can heal.

[@samanthamariah7625]

Watching my adult child keep in the trauma bond year after year is heart breaking. Such a good person who can’t find their way out. Blessings to all who’re dealing with true narcissism.

[@katalincatchpolenefister8954]

Yes it is. I just want to save my daughter 😭 that freak is a psychopath switches aggressive hurt her. Lurred her back ... I hardly can see her or even talk to her. We were so close I don't know what to do😭 but I can't give up ...

[@beverlycullender3938]

The same as me, watching my son who was life and soul of the party and is a shadow of his former self. What can you do. 😢

[@beverlycullender3938]

🙏🙏🙏🙏

[@sum1has2]

Been trying for 10 years while I watch one of my daughters be eaten away. There’s grandkids we have no relationship with because she’s been isolated from EVERYONE she was close to. We’ve survived every smear campaign the vampire has thrown at us, but we’re exhausted. Truly don’t know what to do at this point. He’s left a path of destruction everywhere he’s gone.

[@katalincatchpolenefister8954]

@@sum1has2 I feel for you. I'm so exhausted becoming ill. That monster even threatened me if I there to go to his place he will cause problems. I'm not scared of him just do not know what to do . I went to the police but they can't do much. They said that my daughter has to report him but she won't I believe it's because of fear and psychological torment. Also physically abusive that psycho. I fear for my daughter. God help us all and help those victims 🙏🙏🙏🙏

[@cindysmith6833]

I’ve dealt with a lot of narcissism in my life from parents, siblings, lovers, friends, etc. I live alone now severe PTSD don’t want to meet anybody, don’t wanna do anything ,don’t want to go anywhere, have absolutely no interest in life whatsoever, and I honestly don’t know how to climb out of this hole I’m in ,so I just sit here as every day just crumbles, into another day of nothingness ,have no trust in people whatsoever cannot find it ,can’t allow myself to, and scared to death to be loved.

[@cwarpaint2763]

Try to do one thing every day that you truly enjoy. FORCE yourself at first. Just get what you need out and do it. Every day. Make an area to do this. Art, a good book, jigsaw, whatever.... mix it up.. then when you get the hang of ot, look forward to it, make yourself do 1 thing you NEED to do, once its done, reward yourself with the positive thing you do. Your reward cant be negative ie, junk food, drugs,alcohol etc. It has to be something positive. Don't know what that is? Try different things. Get out in nature. Walk bare footed on the earth. Visit somewhere, beach, rainforest, farm. Rollerscate, sculpt, bake bread Whatever. Do SOMETHING. the absolute worst thing you can do is isolate, more bad habits and choosing to do nothing Truth. I really hope this helps.

[@cwarpaint2763]

Get a dog. Take your time doing it. Choose the correct breed for your living, exercising, life time friend. Always loving and loyal, if chosen correctly. Its scientifically proven to enhance our happiness. So does growing a food garden. Get involved in your local gardening group. Think of the world as a stage, you get to write the script and be the main character everything else is love and obstacles.

[@ellenhanlan8679]

Start small, do one thing every day that can bring you joy, even if you have to force yourself. Build on that. I am going through some of what you are describing and walking outside helps me. I wish you healing and blessings. You Are worth it ❤

[@krissyp7219]

Dear Cindy, I am so sorry. I feel your pain and numbness for life. .Basically, I get you and you get me, because your comments correlate with my own on going experience. Although, my night terrors did stop the day my ex got married. I guess my brain finally felt safe. Anyway, I find I am proud of myself if I do just the smallest thing. Baby steps. I told one of my kids that I loved to isolate, and I shared I was going to start an isolation club. Months later I was asked how it was going. Great! I said. I'm the only one.... (true story, lol) After reading your comments, you qualify to be a member. smile.

[@Name_LF]

You can writer a book ,you re a very good writer , And You can reed so many books as you like , they Will be your friend . And ,you can adopt a dog or a cat to love and be loved by . Ciao from Italy

[@lynettediener]

I honestly wasn’t aware how bad it is with my spouse until I started sharing a little with a trusted friend. She is horrified at the level to which I accept things as normal the way they are. It happens so subtlety. Thank you for this video!

[@BexS77]

Same for me. I confided in friends and they were so shocked that it shocked me! Makes you realise how bad things have become, but in such a slow and insidious way that it just creeps up on you, eroding your self esteem along the way so you end up losing your compass and falling into a pit you can’t climb out of. My ladder was realising it wasn’t me. I found videos like this channel and it was like a lightbulb moment, that was the moment I started to understand and try to heal. Divorce is now looming and I’m so scared, but I’ll make it through because I have to! I’ll be glad I did one day.

[@saintejeannedarc9460]

@@BexS77 You will be so glad you did someday. I'm not going to tell you it's easy. After the second round of cheating, I kicked him out 5 months ago. I was in such a deep depression and in that terrible state I could see he was cheating again, but had no strength to deal w/ it for several months. I would try and confront him and he'd just lie some more. I could barely hold a conversation I was so oppressed, so I couldn't even push it until the proof came rolling in. It still took another 3 months to get him out and things had to get really ugly. I had to become a person, or pretend to be that to drive him out. I managed. Just barely I managed. The girl seems to be done w/ him and now he's hoovering. I am not remotely attracted to him and whatever love I once felt has been squeezed out. The person I loved isn't there anyway. I had no idea what I was really dealing w/ and his capacity for lying, when he got the one chance after cheating. Now I do.

[@_Renee2]

“Duty-bound” I was groomed with this mindset. My mother guilt-tripped me every chance she got. What I will never understand is how they can cause so much pain, and abandon you when you need them the most. But the moment you decide to jump off the rollercoaster of insanity you are at fault. I’ve always felt more like the mom to my mom.

[@Star_Stories_37]

💯 We survivors are the best support for each other. 💕

[@Dwigt_Rortugal]

If we set even the smallest boundary, call them out, we're the problem. "Honor your parents", they weaponize the phrase against me, and in the same minute they literally tell me word for word that I am a dishonorable person and don't behave like a Christian because I finally told my Dad that I can't stand the way he treats my mom. He went straight for my identity, like a kick in the jimmies. How dare we "let our parents down" when it costs us all of our dignity even speak with them? I refuse to play that game, I refuse to be bitter. I choose compassion. It stops with this generation.

[@_Renee2]

@@Dwigt_Rortugal Amen ❤️🙏🏾

[@cacatr4495]

@@Dwigt_Rortugal They refuse accountability, which is a biblical concept/precept, and accuse their truth-telling children when they are following biblical precept. It's stark, raving heresy along with rejection of truth and rejection of accountability. They do not fear or reverence Creator, they do not obey Him, they reject His Truth, they are "sons of disobedience," who opt to defy Him. They are not what they claim to be. I observed their actions, I left home much earlier/younger than they expected me to, then saw their blatant rejection of reality in my twenties and moved far away to another city (without a word), realizing that going No Contact was necessary as our paths needed to fully part, that being decades before I had ever heard the terms "going no contact" or "narcissism." Considering their crimes, I have strong descriptors for them.

[@Texasketogirl]

I survived a 27 year relationship with a narcissist. I didn’t realize I was under so much stress. I didn’t know who I was or even what I liked. I didn’t start living until he was gone. I have never been happier. I am getting to know myself, finally!

[@SurvivingNarcissism]

So pleased for you, Jennifer!

[@shelley6111]

Same here, same story! My life is SO peaceful now! 😊

[@lala5061]

Yes, u were just surviving and now you are living...just like me right now I'm done with it 4 good 😌

[@debrawalters9746]

My husband fits every narcissist profile. Three years ago I began working with an amazing therapist. With her help I went from having no sense of self to noticing my voice. To trying my voice out, to saying how I feel instantaneously. Now I speak how I feel, say what my boundaries are and I don’t let anyone walk over me. My husband and I are still together only because I suffered a horrible injury that left me disabled for the past twenty years. Of course my mother was a narcissist with some other mental disorders. I’m 66 and I’m almost free. I had a recent back surgery that was successful. My goal is to have a job by summer and leave my husband at that time. I’m dreaming of a life of peace and love. Thank you for all that you do 💖

[@LauraHalvar]

🥰

[@Alpinewild444]

God Bless you, you can do this!

[@ivanavrkic650]

Support and compassion 😌😌😌😌💛

[@BedfordFalls7]

Good for you. You have amazing strength and courage. Peace and Love to you!

[@THe-ss5sz]

Its nice that you have the brains to accept that your husband is a narcissist, my mother is so fucking weak.

[@prarthanadurgam8646]

Compassion for everyone who has gone through trauma bonding. It happens slowly over time that you don't realize the extent of the trauma. Only when you leave do you realize how much denial you have lived in... unable to to see reality and then the painful realizations hit you with so much shame and guilt for the person you have become. Prayers of strength and courage for anyone trying to leave the relationship. It is very difficult to leave. Thank you Dr. C for being the clear thinking to face and overcome the trauma bonding.

[@taramize2877]

Thank you so much

[@BellaLuna2005]

This is so true. Exactly how I feel right now. The more I watch videos on this topic, the more I’m getting depressed. I didn’t realize how bad it is and how much I gave up on.

[@SimplyKatG]

Im in this position with a disabled son that needs me to be a stay at home which i only can by stayin with my husband for now...

[@chrisjames3401]

Narcissistic people enjoy hurting you. They should have to do prison time for what they do to good hearted . They know how to hurt very badly.

[@CapedCrusader77]

@@BellaLuna2005 i hope you're ok Don't be depressed about clarity It's your higher self reaching out a hand Sending massive hug and love to you 🤍🤍🤍

[@Ok2bcrazy78]

Going on 26 years. He is slowly killing my spirit. He will tell me in one breath to rest and the next telling me I don't work enough

[@judithhetherington6029]

Why aren’t you working? (homemaker & helping with his business) Why can’t you be more like x (housewife) if I was working. No win ……. I want you to put off going to work until we finish the house renovation……… then, Why aren’t you going back to work? ……… then as I began the process of my professional re registration……approached others. “do you know what’s going on with her…….returning to work ……..is she planning an escape route?” No way to win …🫣🫣

[@peanut1001x]

more fool you for wasting your life

[@annwallace3441]

Don’t judge - it’s not that easy to escape.

[@KAT-wo1js]

Yes. They flip flop a lot.

[@ramyamel5351]

My father in a nutshell

[@stevesmith3199]

I have been stunned more than once by the outlandish lies told to me and about me that were designed for the sole purpose of shaming me. Any attempt on my part to clarify and defend myself usually escalated the intensity of "shame on me" for trying to defend myself, how selfish. In my 60s now but most of my life I knew there was something wrong with these people, not me. Your insights and suggestions are spot on, thank you.

[@nunyabiznes3901]

Right?!?!? I am dealing with this hardcore right now, and it’s so incredibly frustrating! I have been so thoroughly defamed my entire life that nobody trusts me. Now that it’s gotten to the point that the law/government are stepping in, everybody is in absolute disbelief even though I’ve been telling them for years. 🙄

[@catherine7065]

I'm also 60, been married 30. All of this is SPOT ON! Almost out, incredibly difficult...

[@andreasieffert2322]

That's my story too. Started to tell him that's his perspective which he has a right too. Oh boy! Did that frustrate him.

[@Rolanda-Doe.1126]

Same here. I'm 63 did not find out my mother was a narcissist until I was 58 years old. The damage was already done. All I could do was walk away. Left behind my daughter and step daughter. It was hard to do. My mother was a religious narcissist. But she herself was really a non believer using her religion as weapon of mass destruction. 5 people died due to her shenanigans. But she some how managed to keep her hands clean from their deaths. But she was ultimately responsible for what was going on. I feel for you. Good luck and best wishes towards your recovery

[@Blonde111]

What about the lies that are told to others, that you don’t have a clue about? In front of you, everything seems fairly normal, behind your back they spew lies and blame everything on you especially to the children. Mine didn’t have too many tantrums, they just accumulate all your “misdeeds” and then passively aggressively detach.

[@caleuxx9108]

One of the problems with covert aggression is that it can be so subtle that it really takes time and effort and much observation to catch all the covert aggression/manipulation, but then other people will not support you, because they do not see it, will not see it and refuse to accept it as aggression that harms people.

[@MadScientist267]

It's supposed to be a lesson 🙄

[@SpaceCowboyFun]

Many are masters at hiding their evil manipulation... It's part of their "game" to make you look like the crazy or manipulative one- even to the point of questioning yourself!

[@wendyllewellyn503]

How very accurate

[@beyerterp]

You said it perfectly! My husband is evil; the covert aspect of his behavior is really diabolical. The fact that he thinks about, and plans, ways to hurt me... I know he does, but I still can't wrap my mind around how someone actually gets joy out of hurting someone they're supposed to love more than anyone else in their life.

[@caleuxx9108]

@@beyerterp - Hi, so do you have a plan to get out? Or are you just minimizing contact? My personal experience is that, its good to move at least 1,5 hours away from that person, maybe more (hard if you have kids). ------ From what I have learned and seen, I believe that these people have a big need for revenge even for the smallest percieved slight - and since they are hypersensitive (the smallest things offend them into toxic shame), that seems to make them feel often attacked + their disordered boundries make them think that others are responsible for things that are in reality their responsibility..... To me it seems like their aggression is mostly revenge and controlling behavior as they try to manage these toxic internal mechanisms (I think that they live in hell).... It is their problem to solve, not ours.

[@ashleyg4299]

Listening to these comments brought tears to my eyes. It’s the most devastating thing I’ve ever had to go through, and I’m still trying to heal. They take everything from you and you’re left with nothing more than an empty shell of the person you once were. They take all of your money. They really do make you feel worthless. I do wonder if I’ll ever completely heal from the damage he’s done.

[@sg-vp2qg]

Don't give up on your healing. You can persevere and recognise your strength and worth. The opinions and words of your toxic (and wrong!) ex-partner do not define who you are. Hang in there, you are not alone. All the best to you.

[@ashleyg4299]

@@sg-vp2qg Thank you for your kind words and words of encouragement. I don’t wish this on anyone, but it helps to know I’m not alone. It seems so many of us are going through the same thing and it’s heartbreaking. All the best to you as well.

[@Portia620]

You will and must use your pain to rise up honey. I know it’s hard. Mine used the kids against me.

[@ashleyg4299]

@@Portia620 I’m sorry that you had to go through that. Thank you for your encouraging words. I feel like I’ve found an amazing support system through KZbin videos ❤️

[@sunshinedayz7032]

🧡😢same!

[@carrie6157]

Thank You Dr. Carter … for all you do for ALL of us 🙏

[@user-qy3oh7xm8n]

Even after 31 years with a malignant narcissist and 5 years widowed - I have never heard so accurate a reflection of my experience. Still seems impossible to get past this abuse

[@Happyxcamper]

"They say they are 'clean & healthy,' when they are most 'sick.'"

[@thescapegoatclub]

It’s so hard when you’re born into this dynamic so don’t know it’s abnormal. Thank you so much, Dr C, for these videos. You have helped save me.

[@merryl55]

I always knew that my life was abnormal (or at least my mother was abnormal).

[@thescapegoatclub]

@@merryl55 do you think that’s better or worse than not knowing?

[@merryl55]

@@thescapegoatclub Well, I think it's better knowing.

[@brynleytalbot778]

@@merryl55 I knew it subconsciously but didn’t consciously admit it till I very secretly (living at home with my parents) did Social Anxiety Disorder therapy online within which I was asked to record events and then apply alternative thoughts. All of those events I’d shrugged off believing I was weird and couldn’t be right we’re revealed as true. It culminated in a total breakdown. Years later, even as her death removed the demeaning abuse, I still can’t rise above it. I can focus but the negativity soon hits. It’s as if narcissistic abuse is the gift that keeps on giving.

[@thescapegoatclub]

@@merryl55 the better of two evils, maybe? 😏

[@screentake01]

We live in a sick world and nobody should be trauma bonding with a sick world.

[@lydias2801]

"How the hell did I get here ?" Yes, that sums it up perfectly! I'm a shadow of my former self ... it almost destroyed me. My health is slowly returning. And I'm slowly finding myself again. When he stopped having any effect on me, and I started totally ignoring and tuning out his needs/desires/demands -- He left. That was the best thing that happened ... It was His choice, based on My Actions ... which translated to "No More"!

[@melissadixon4091]

Excellent and yes, they get disinterested when life doesn’t revolve around them. I was crying out to God about it in my situation and He told me to apologize for treating him (my narc) like a god. I was so hurt about all of it, couldn’t understand but I did it anyway. It was the best thing I could have done because he no longer wanted the position of just husband. He slithered off with his new supply. I’m so glad you got out!

[@girlygal098]

This makes me feel so happy. You did it!

[@jennifertalley49]

I can identify with your comment. My situation was the same , HE left , and the light bulb came on in my brain. After 22 yrs , now was my chance to let go. That meant cutting off all communications. He quickly got bored , especially when I didn’t have sex w him anymore. Sex was a manipulative tool he used to hold his place. He cldnt believe I didn’t want him anymore. So he made it out to be me , because his fragile ego cldnt take rejection. That was almost 7 yrs ago , and I’m just now wanting to live. I’m not grieving anymore. I want to get to know me again. I dnt know if I’ll ever be ready for a relationship again, but I’ve learned to be happy with myself, w out validation from anyone else. My heart goes out to anyone that’s had to go through this. It definitely changes you.

[@haikuoflife]

Every time I didn't think he could go any lower, he always proved me wrong. That was a big one in my experience.

[@opopopop6286]

Yes, remembering all the worst times helps keep me on the current path of healing. Knowing that I was easily able to think of self harm, and even harm towards others. These things which are NOW very opposite to my thinking and way of life really help keep me looking for the proper partner that I know is waiting for me somewhere. Someone that will have the same empathy that I will, and we can share it with each other. Best education / healing I could of gotten, so there is much to be gained as I know this truth in my heart!

[@roxyblabla]

Same! They can always go lower as i also found out!

[@kristenmarie9248]

They become predictable in that they never fail to disappoint. Once you see them for what they are, you know, what their next move is, BEFORE they do it. Never trust them.

[@cassiehatella5102]

If I had a dollar for every time I've said this...

[@renafielding945]

Trump

[@lissacablerware8475]

Thank you for reminding me that I was sideswiped because I was caring and patient. The kindness factor was my downfall. Grief pops up occasionally. Sadness that there are so many broken souls in the world 😢

[@analiaramirez2934]

I’m in the path of recovery. Vitamin B 12 has helped a lot. I lack focus and energy after this break up .

[@markhooperhomeinspections9865]

I highly recommend B12 complex and Folate!!!! It’s a life saver in helping manage the stress and anxiety. I completely understand the word nefarious now! But I do find comfort in knowing that they actually don’t do it on purpose. It’s like they wake up and decide this is what I will do to hurt my partner today. They can’t help bring who they are!!! The level of their insecurity is so amazingly high that is why they act the way they do. This is not to excuse them but to show you that it’s not you!!!! It was never you!! They will continue to be that way for ever never changing, just changing victims. So if you are out…. Thank the stars and rem we mover it was never about you!!! If you are still in it… I don’t pray… but I will for all those that haven’t opened their eyes. For all those that are sick, because that is what happens… you start getting sick a lot! I will pray that you open your eyes before it’s too late. Before you commit suicide, before you have a stroke or before you come down with a serious illness - you are not the problem, they are!!! Find your tribe, there is one for every person!! A tribe that is supportive & loving- it’s human nature to want and to give that. Don’t settle for that little crumb they give you every so often. You can have it everyday!! I’m 9 months out and just now healing physically! Emotionally it will take some time but I’m working hard at that everyday so that my narcissist doesn’t take more from me - because even after they are gone… they are still in your head!!!!

[@bradwoodard8289]

Thank you, Dr. Carter. I wish you had put this video out three years ago! It took two therapists six months of walking me through her playbook, explaining what was going on and predicting her actions before they happened for me to understand what you put so eloquently and succinctly here. One of them literally said, "The cause of your depression and anxiety is your terrible taste in women." Years of acquiescing, sacrificing my dreams and wishes, of trying to make her happy, and nothing was ever enough. Going to court because of her battles with neighbors and landlords. Trying to meet her financial demands while she refused to talk finances. Demanding I manage the expenses without contributing, forcing me to spend all my money on the rent, utilities, expenses and spoiling her, while she squirreled away or squandered her own income, because of my "sense of duty." Night after night of getting home from work at midnight to have her waiting up for me, screaming until 2am about how she was the one in control, I needed to understand that, and that if i didn't she would leave me and I would have no one left, that she would destroy me and take everything I had. In the end my car was the only place I had any solitude and when her check engine light came on and she demanded I give her my car and start Ubering to work, I finally found the strength to walk away. For those of you still dealing with this-- I can't put into words how good the feeling is to have your freedom back. There is a life beyond this and it can be amazing, wonderful. The biggest surprise was how many people were just waiting for me to break free so they could be there again for me. Just a few months after leaving, I had more love and support from friends and family than I had experienced in ages. If anyone reading this is on the edge and want to talk to someone on the other side of what you're going through, you can DM me.

[@SurvivingNarcissism]

So pleased you're getting back to your real self, and I'm honored to be on the journey with you. Dr. C

[@kimberlyritchie4776]

Wow guys! I’m glad I’m not the only one that has experienced this… not that I want anyone to!” but I was labeled a “drunk/jealous/ crazy person” by my ex husband AND his sister (she’s enables his behavior) I went to “rehab” for alcohol to find out that I’m actually not an alcoholic.. my doctor said “those 2 have you completely undone” Luckily rehab did have psychologists and I had intense therapy for 3 months and was able to leave the relationship. PLEASE listen to the wisdom of these videos!!! Life gets better!!! 😊

[@Liz-sc5dg]

I was told, by my narcissistic mother, that I wouldn't survive without her. Four years now and I'm still here, although not easy, I am claiming my freedom. Thank you Dr. C.

[@ellensiepser74]

I had a dependent/narcissistic mother who demanded that I stay with her all her life. Never mind my life. And I felt guilty just for trying to create a life for myself.

[@notmeee7302]

I'm so sorry both of you had to hear these words from the one person in your life that was supposed to build you up, teach you how to be successful and independent, to let you be free. I feel the success of a mother is knowing that you taught your children how to survive, thrive, and be successful without you while wanting to come back and see you and share with you. Share their success. I suggest you find a surrogate mom. There are plenty of women out there willing to support people that need it. I'm not saying abandon your mother, I'm just saying create healthy boundaries.

[@amypalafox7315]

I had a narcissistic mother too. Good on you for taking charge of your life and leaving her behind!

[@Guess4what]

They will lie to your very face and not flinch.....You will thrive and have a wonderful Life..... just stay away from bad self serving people

[@egrogan6482]

@@notmeee7302 The best thing to do is to abandon your mother when she's like that, it's called "going no contact." I had to do that with my other because she said the exact same thing - I couldn't survive without her. Many years later she disowned me but never told me why - because she had no good reason. That's when I went no contact, I've never missed her. Going no contact is only thing to do when you have a narcissist who tortures you, they will never change.

[@nedraencelewski4400]

He also made it seem that I was the one that could never be happy. Honestly I wasn't ever happy and so I felt it was my fault for our problems because I couldn't be happy. Sometimes I still have those thoughts that "maybe if I had done this, it would have been better." I remind myself again, I did everything I could have.

[@jmagnificent3162]

This! My narc ex husband would say "you're never happy" and "why are you always so negative"! When he cheated and got caught, he actually convinced me it was MY fault.

[@thenativeconservationist]

@@jmagnificent3162same here wow 😢

[@c3909]

Yes, you did ❤️❤️ and it was never enough. Fuck it!!

[@chermainecerniglia]

@@jmagnificent3162 msmcmsmcsm. N an ax

[@winterdesert1]

When the narcissist mistreats you, and lies to you, you develop a feeling that you want them to fail. But coincidentally, they want YOU to fail. So there you have two people working together who wants the other to fail. It's a very terrible and toxic way to work.

[@stephanie5471]

There was nothing left of me after 14 years with a narcissist, only an empty shell. I didn’t know who I was anymore or how I got there. I felt so alone, unlovable, and I felt I was the most horrible person in the world. My narcissistic ex told me I was damaged goods and no one would want me if I divorced him. I know what he is now, and the fog lifts everyday a little more thanks to people like Dr Carter who put the word out about narcissistic abuse. The validation contained in these videos such as these are priceless and so helpful.

[@amberc3728]

❤

[@Aliveandkick8]

I felt the same after 18 yrs. I tried most psych meds to try and "fix me" and when the last one made me sicker than all the rest, I was done. Took a year of self reflection to realize I was indeed a true catch and a good man would be very happy to have me. More than 15yrs my new husband and I have been together now without a single fight. If I could hold it together that long with someone who always put his needs before everyone else, eternity with a thoughtful, giving man becomes a cake walk. I don't think I was ready for him until I went through all this though. Despite the pain it helped me grow and appreciate a good thing when I saw it.

[@jennyanderson4796]

@@Aliveandkick8 love happy endings & bless both of you - 💛

[@georginab6995]

Yes I agree, I will be forever grateful for Dr. C’s videos too. I thought it was all me. It has been a hard lesson and I’m learning to like me again. Physically, I don’t recognize myself though. 😔

[@jennyanderson4796]

@@georginab6995 no matter ,its only gonna be shed entirely when angels unburden us completely- time to focus on the heart ♥ its powerful when combined with a sound mind, a grateful heart ❤ of course- grateful for the tough lesson - ah not sure I've said that yet for myself , oh.

[@shsreddevils2193]

I am now 72 years old. I still struggle with self-doubt and anger. I feel 'broken' inside and don't know how to fix it. I've been watching your videos for many months and feel only frustration as I learn about my past. Trauma bonding explains my past perfectly. You speak to me as though you have known me for a long time. Thank you. I'm struggling . . . still learning. Keep speaking to me!

[@DianaLDiehl]

70 here. 70 years of abuse from multiple narcissists and psychopaths has left me feeling shattered inside, too. But I'm getting better. All of my focus is on me now, doing what I need to mend any part of me I can. Will I ever be "normal'? Impossible. But I can make my remaining years the best I can, and I intend on doing it, by shutting the abusive and people out and enjoying my own company.

[@TallulahBelle3276]

Sending you love n hugs. 💝Sadly I can relate. When I watch I feel sad for the reality but encouraged to understand it. I’m 60 this year and I want to leave but I’m terrified that I can’t take care of myself financially. I feel like staying is a slow death of mental torture. I’m now having physical symptoms of digestive issues. It’s common among people living with constant emotional stress. It’s painful physically and emotionally. I feel less lost when I learn about all this. I feel a twinkling of hope. I wish the same for you. Maybe with just a twinkling we can turn it into an empowering light. May you be Blessed in every way. ✨💝🌞🙏🏾

[@TallulahBelle3276]

@@DianaLDiehl , Kudos to you for your strength! You’re inspiring that no matter how hard you had it you perservered and are doing n feeling better. I’m SO happy for you n you give me hope that I too can get better n make my life better. Take a bow.✨✌🏽🙏🏾💝Thanks for your comments too!

[@TallulahBelle3276]

Also, thank you for sharing your feelings n experience with us. I appreciate you. 🌻

[@DianaLDiehl]

@@TallulahBelle3276 I hope you can find a way to get away. I understand that feeling of not being able to take care of yourself. Even when I was a professional person with a skill set that could support me I believed I couldn't survive on my own because of how badly my psyche had eroded. That was with the second narcissist. With the third narcissist (both were over 20-years of suffering each) I thought I would be living under a bridge if I left. However my physical health was crumbling, and I knew that living under a bridge was better than what I was going through psychologically. Remember, marital assets in many states are 50/50. That saved me when I was already retired and had a pittance for social security. Get expert advice. Tax advice, Financial advice, therapist, whatever you need to create a network of support for informed decision making. It doesn't matter how smart we are when we are with a narcissist who is grinding us down. We need outside data. If you can't get away I hope you find ways to stay far away, vacation a lot, visit relatives a lot, be away from the house with activities. Do you know about the gray rock communication technique? Dr Ramani is another excellent resource for finding your inner strength and learning survival techniques. Hugs and strength!

[@sandramariesolander]

I know we have heard this from each other so many times, the validation, the camaraderie, the support. Hearing it from you, Dr C., hit me profoundly today. I just want to express my gratitude. Hearing you acknowledge the pain and suffering each of us has felt at one time or another, reading our comments aloud, tells us that you've been listening. That's something we're not used to, someone listening to us, and actually being heard. We've been so busy trying to be heard, that we sometimes feel we are invisible. Your videos are a life preserver in a rough sea. Thank you.

[@kathyth539]

I agree. Dr Carter is so validating, knowledgeable & kind. Wish he were my next door neighbor....I love listening to his sage thoughts and reassuring voice.

[@ritanewberry-se4zk]

Your talking about my life, thank god I’m ok now, living on my own, with peace & contentment, thought I was going out of my mind, it does take a while to recover & heal.

[@eringilbert7456]

“I don’t need input from you, period.” Wow that feels powerfully good to me. When I discovered that my Mother is my “original narcissist” suddenly all the wreckage of my life and relationships came into clear focus. As painful and shocking as the process of unlearning conditioning has been, the puzzle pieces finally fit together and make sense. I feel like I’ve left a cult and am becoming free of the brainwashing. You are an excellent resource- so well informed, thoughtful and easy to listen to. Thank you for your work.

[@sabinadonofrio8863]

Just remember to forgive that part of your mom. She was very likely also a victim of narcissistic parents and siblings. My mom went through the war with two babies, almost got raped by British soldiers and my dad, well, clueless and self centered. As a child, I knew no matter what, that she did her best. I felt sorry for her being married to my dad. I ended up taking care of her before she passed and we resolved many issues. And I told her I had forgiven her long ago when I was a teen. They don't truly know the depth of their pain so it's simply better for your health and sanity to let it go. I was glad I did. It made me a heck of a lot stronger and smarter because I didn't allow it to weaken me and make me sick. It took me ten years to leave an abusive marriage and she accepted me back to help me. My baby was her greatest reward. I'm glad.

[@loiskief7333]

If you have escaped a toxic family, you HAVE left a cult where you were taken prisoner and held hostage for the sole purpose and for the sole pleasure of being tortured and being eaten alive by hungry predators. Here are some words of wisdom and encouragement that someone shared with me a long time ago --- "NEVER PUT THE KEY TO YOUR FREEDOM IN SOMEONE ELSE'S POCKET !!!" We don't have to give away our freedom to someone who only see us as prey to feed on.The lion stalks his prey, "isolates" it from the herd, which makes it easy for him to go in for the kill. He catches his prey, suffocates it then finishes it off by eating it from the inside, which includes the lungs, the heart, the liver --- everything that gives his prey precious life. The narcissist is no different than a hungry lion. His tactics are the same. You DESERVE to "keep" the GIFT of your GOD-GIVEN "free will." It gives our spirit life by allowing us to have the freedom to be who we are as a person.No one has the right to demand or take from you what they themselves would not submit to you for anything in the world. Hope that you are completely narc free and that there are people in your life who care deeply about you, and who want the very best for you.

[@lindadavis8534]

Erin, I’ve been on the same path! After my mother and husband passed within 6 months I sought out grief counseling from my mothers Psychiatrist. Her reaction of honest shock when she asked me”did you think your mother was normal?” and I replied “yes” was my biggest wake up call

[@sabinadonofrio8863]

@@lindadavis8534 well, that's good in a way. Frankly, almost all mothers are narcissistic. How else would you even want to be a mother? After all, in order to have a "little mini me" is a bit narcissistic to begin with. And no one, no one escapes it. I was told I loved my kids too much. Can you believe that???? I put my life, my body and my mental and physical health on the line in order to replicate myself. And I get told that I love my babies too much!!!! Tiger moms had nothing over me. And why the fucking not????!!!!! You try pushing for thirty hours untill you have nothing else to breathe with!!! And no, you don't forget that stuff!!! Try It's a big lie. The second child has you terrified the whole nine months. I told my hubby, you better make it fantastic and worth it. He did.

[@denisegiannakis5667]

I just clocked 4 weeks of no contact with my mother....yes I've been paying for my grandmother's absence in my mother's life from age 4.. I was safe until age 6 when my father died suddenly ...after 50 years I have broken free...im lucky that I've always questioned everything and relied upon a bit of logic...this has kept me less trauma bonded but caused buckets full of fights and her constant refrain that lm being disrespectful. In her mind any thought or opinion that differs from her own is disrespect....even when I was depressed in my younger years...my mother took this as disrespect....how dare I be unhappy with such a wonderful mother as herself!

[@tinamay6431]

After 17 years (15 of them married) I finally broke free. March 6th of this year. Thank you so so much for posting this. I feel .....so many things...grief...anguish...anger...more anguish...guilt...but watching this has helped more than you will ever know and I am going to watch and utilize everything you have.

[@SurvivingNarcissism]

Best wishes to you, Tina! Now...I hope you find peace.

[@Lillyrise]

3rd 2143🤗🥰😵😵😵😵🥰🥰🥰🥰🥰🥰🥰🥰

[@janamercado8008]

Absolute truth. I describe my experience as "he shredded my soul." I completely lost myself, my voice, my self value, my worth, my everything. But I got her back stronger and better than ever.

[@elizabethy2912]

I am there, doing that right now. I have a plan to get out of this relationship". I'm looking forward to being able to go anywhere I want , and stay as long as I want without looking forward to being interrogated and lectured.

[@It_isGreatwith_mysoul]

This is what I'm trying to accomplish. I was totally independent before I met him. Fast forward to now after 19 years, I have no job, no car, no friends. It seems like I lost everything over the years. We have 4 teenagers so leaving is clearly not an option. Especially since they are all dating and I think of the future gran babies. If I leave, I know I won't be in their lives. They will cut me off like a dead branch so I stay and pray and keep my feelings to myself.

[@kimberlythorne]

Your codependency is showing, Girlfriend. If your children's love is conditional on you staying unhappy and unhealthy, don't you see how trauma bonded you still are?

[@kimberlythorne]

Nobody has that kind of POWER over a MOTHER if there isn't something else that is so important to you that you describe your children as flying monkeys to Dad's validation of YOU?! I'd run. YOLO

[@kimberlythorne]

💰 security? Time for big girl panties

[@jenreiter8580]

They gaslight you to the point where you feel like you're the bad person. You're the one with problems, and, weaknesses , you truly forget who you are. Then, when you realize what's happening, more games start. They know you're an empath and suck you back in with their pity parties.

[@teresacastillo1783]

....are they hypnosis you??? Be careful

[@zippyz4170]

I would never talk because anytime I said something people would say "I was wrong", "You aren't smart", "You are imagining things" but they could insult and bully me all day long. Now in my loudest voice I call them out for who they are and stand up to them.

[@tallguy8937]

I too just sat there and said nothing and took their abuse on the chin. Glad you stand up for yourself. I finally left the state. Mine wanted to get violent. Good luck to you 😎

[@christar9527]

I did the same. Now I’m speaking up. “Stay unfiltered and loud and be proud of your skin full of scars. That’s what I know so far.” That’s P!nk, the singer. Good lyrics I think.

[@opopopop6286]

Avoid becoming like them tho...also you do realize that they actually ENJOY negativity almost as much as they enjoy positivity...so they are still sucking you dry while you stand/sit there and argue with them or tell them NO...you only have TWO main weapons as a proper empath. Number one is PURE SILENCE< we are talking the kind of silence that is so deep and uncaring of their attacks that it is pure brutal on them...which you seem to forget actually works because while you were doing it before you had the goal backwards...the silence is FOR YOURSELF, they have zero to do with it being NPC/vamps. The OTHER IS SAYING NO WITHOUT SAYING NO. They have zero clue even what to do about this kind of advanced skill. You DO THIS by learning how to use NLP (neuro linguistic programming) like a PRO. If you just tell a narc NO, they like this ALMOST as much as hearing yes in case you were wondering. What is the old saying, wrestling with a pig? You will just get dirty and the pig enjoys it? Tell them NO using positive language TO PROGRAM THEM PROPERLY, and achieve the NEXT LEVEL so to speak. Where you will have them avoid you because they KNOW they will be wasting their time. They look for easy victims as part of the narc mindset. Empaths seek challenge, it is how we grow fast. In order to gain power, it is the way!

[@debrabowman8750]

I think most folks see relationships through their own lens, they just can't comprehend the lack of love and lack of empathy a person goes through married to a narc. It is the worst nightmare come true. I have never in my life felt so alone.

[@prant8998]

Read all our reply’s, you are not alone!

[@annettehovey6105]

This actually brought me to tears relating with this. Also let’s me know I am not alone. Thank-you!

[@mariadange06]

Nope sadly too many traumatised :(

[@lauriegast5425]

This is one of the best talks I’ve heard on trauma bonding. Thank you so much. All the things you have said “to remember” have happened to me and it was from my husband pastor 😔 I have never never been enough for him no matter how hard and long I try. I’m leaving but I know I have to work on me now. Thank you

[@SurvivingNarcissism]

Best wishes to you, Laurie. I hope you've seen one of my earlier videos, How Religious Narcissist Gaslight You.