Prioritizing your well-being after narcissistic abuse is crucial for your healing and personal growth. Narcissistic abuse can be emotionally and psychologically damaging, so it’s essential to take steps to rebuild your self-esteem, regain your sense of self, and create a healthier, happier life. Here are some ways to prioritize your well-being, with advice from narcissistic abuse survivors:
1. Seek professional help: Many survivors of narcissistic abuse benefit from therapy or counseling. A therapist can help you process your emotions, understand the abuse, and develop coping strategies.
2. Educate yourself: Learn about narcissism and narcissistic personality disorder to understand what you went through. Knowledge can be empowering and help you make sense of your experiences.
3. No contact: Whenever possible, cut off contact with the narcissist. This is one of the most effective ways to protect your well-being and start the healing process.
4. Establish boundaries: After narcissistic abuse, it’s crucial to set and maintain healthy boundaries. Learn to say no and prioritize your needs and feelings.
5. Self-care: Make self-care a daily practice. This can include activities like exercise, meditation, journaling, or hobbies that bring you joy.
6. Support system: Reach out to supportive friends and family members. It’s essential to have a network of people who can provide emotional support and validation.
7. Self-compassion: Be kind to yourself. Understand that the abuse was not your fault, and it’s okay to have negative emotions. Self-compassion can help you heal.
8. Mindfulness and meditation: These practices can help you stay grounded in the present moment and reduce anxiety and stress.
9. Focus on your passions and goals: Rediscover your interests and set new goals for yourself. This can help you rebuild your self-esteem and sense of purpose.
10. Financial independence: If the narcissistic abuse involved financial control, work on achieving financial independence. This can be liberating and provide you with a sense of security.
11. Journaling: Keep a journal to document your thoughts, emotions, and progress. This can be a therapeutic way to express yourself and track your healing journey.
12. Self-reflection: Take time to reflect on your experiences and learn from them. This can help you avoid repeating similar patterns in the future.
13. Support groups: Join support groups for survivors of narcissistic abuse. Sharing your experiences with others who have gone through similar situations can be incredibly validating and helpful.
14. Legal assistance: If necessary, consult with an attorney to understand your legal rights, especially if the abuse involved legal issues like custody battles.
15. Self-esteem building: Engage in activities that boost your self-esteem. Positive affirmations, self-help books, and self-esteem exercises can be beneficial.
16. Forgiveness and closure: Forgiving the narcissist is not about excusing their behavior but letting go of the anger and resentment for your own peace of mind. Closure may come from recognizing that the narcissist is unlikely to change.
17. Limit exposure to triggers: Identify and avoid triggers that remind you of the abuse. This can help reduce anxiety and emotional distress.
18. Safety planning: If you still feel threatened or unsafe, take measures to protect yourself, such as changing locks, getting a restraining order, or seeking shelter if necessary.
Remember that healing from narcissistic abuse is a process, and it may take time. Be patient with yourself and seek professional help if you are struggling to cope. Your well-being is a top priority, and with the right support and self-care, you can recover and thrive.
If you’ve suffered from narcissistic abuse, your story deserves to be heard. Feel free to submit your version of events and you could be a guest blogger on our website.