{"id":2378,"date":"2026-03-31T15:24:02","date_gmt":"2026-03-31T15:24:02","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/themarymcconnell.com\/blog\/?p=2378"},"modified":"2026-04-07T11:44:38","modified_gmt":"2026-04-07T11:44:38","slug":"narcissistic-abuse-and-ptsd","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/themarymcconnell.com\/blog\/narcissistic-abuse-and-ptsd\/","title":{"rendered":"Narcissistic Abuse and PTSD: How Emotional Trauma Rewires Your Brain and How to Heal From It"},"content":{"rendered":"<p data-rm-block-id=\"block-1\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-2744\" src=\"http:\/\/themarymcconnell.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Re-EDIT-38.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2240\" height=\"1260\" \/><\/p>\n<p data-rm-block-id=\"block-2\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\u201cwhy can\u2019t I just move on?\u201d How many times do you ask this question after you\u2019ve left the narcissist? Did you realize that narcissistic abuse and PTSD go hand in hand. When we leave the narcissist the memories and nightmares stay with us.<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><\/p>\n<p data-rm-block-id=\"block-3\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Narcissistic abuse and PTSD go hand in hand. The manipulation and devaluation suffered by narcissistic abuse can lead to PTSD. Waking up with nightmares, a sudden flash of a memory in the middle of the day becomes common.<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><\/p>\n<p data-rm-block-id=\"block-4\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">When you survive narcissistic abuse you have changes that occur in your brain with symptoms that need healing. Learning the symptoms and the tools to heal them will speed up your healing journey by leaps and bounds.<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><\/p>\n<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_81 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title\" style=\"cursor:inherit\">Table of Contents<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle Table of Content\"><span class=\"ez-toc-js-icon-con\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/themarymcconnell.com\/blog\/narcissistic-abuse-and-ptsd\/#What_Is_PTSD_and_How_Does_It_Relate_to_Narcissistic_Abuse\" >What Is PTSD and How Does It Relate to Narcissistic Abuse?\u00a0<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/themarymcconnell.com\/blog\/narcissistic-abuse-and-ptsd\/#How_Narcissistic_Abuse_Rewires_the_Brain\" >How Narcissistic Abuse Rewires the Brain\u00a0<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/themarymcconnell.com\/blog\/narcissistic-abuse-and-ptsd\/#Signs_You_May_Be_Experiencing_PTSD_From_Narcissistic_Abuse\" >Signs You May Be Experiencing PTSD From Narcissistic Abuse\u00a0<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/themarymcconnell.com\/blog\/narcissistic-abuse-and-ptsd\/#The_Overlap_Between_CPTSD_and_Narcissistic_Abuse\" >The Overlap Between CPTSD and Narcissistic Abuse\u00a0<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/themarymcconnell.com\/blog\/narcissistic-abuse-and-ptsd\/#How_to_Begin_Healing_and_Rewire_Your_Brain\" >How to Begin Healing and Rewire Your Brain\u00a0<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/themarymcconnell.com\/blog\/narcissistic-abuse-and-ptsd\/#How_Long_Does_It_Take_to_Heal\" >How Long Does It Take to Heal?\u00a0<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<h2 data-rm-block-id=\"block-5\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_Is_PTSD_and_How_Does_It_Relate_to_Narcissistic_Abuse\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">What Is PTSD and How Does It Relate to Narcissistic Abuse?\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p data-rm-block-id=\"block-6\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-large wp-image-2380\" src=\"http:\/\/themarymcconnell.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/generated-image-2026-02-14-14-1024x765.png\" alt=\"Woman sitting on bed at dawn, hands clasped, soft window light, calm expression\u2014healing from narcissistic abuse and PTSD\" width=\"1024\" height=\"765\" srcset=\"https:\/\/themarymcconnell.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/generated-image-2026-02-14-14-1024x765.png 1024w, https:\/\/themarymcconnell.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/generated-image-2026-02-14-14-300x224.png 300w, https:\/\/themarymcconnell.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/generated-image-2026-02-14-14-768x573.png 768w, https:\/\/themarymcconnell.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/generated-image-2026-02-14-14-150x112.png 150w, https:\/\/themarymcconnell.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/generated-image-2026-02-14-14.png 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/p>\n<p data-rm-block-id=\"block-7\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Post Traumatic Stress Disorder or PTSD is the way the body responds causing and responding to a trauma, nightmares, flashbacks, panic attacks. <\/span><\/p>\n<p data-rm-block-id=\"block-8\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">CPTSD is Compounded PTSD, where it may not be a single major traumatic event or experience but a pattern of small traumas that make a large trauma<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><\/p>\n<p data-rm-block-id=\"block-9\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Abuse does not always have to be physical. A narcissist feels they are smart enough not to get caught for abuse because they don\u2019t leave bruises in some cases.<\/span><\/p>\n<p data-rm-block-id=\"block-10\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">T<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">he emotional, mental, financial, and verbal abuse can cause a mental trauma resulting in PTSD or CPTSD. This is a long term effect of their phycological abuse.<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><\/p>\n<p data-rm-block-id=\"block-11\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-large wp-image-2381\" src=\"http:\/\/themarymcconnell.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/generated-image-2026-02-14-15-1024x765.png\" alt=\"Woman walking alone at dusk, glancing over shoulder, tense posture\u2014hypervigilance symptom of narcissistic abuse and PTSD\" width=\"1024\" height=\"765\" srcset=\"https:\/\/themarymcconnell.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/generated-image-2026-02-14-15-1024x765.png 1024w, https:\/\/themarymcconnell.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/generated-image-2026-02-14-15-300x224.png 300w, https:\/\/themarymcconnell.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/generated-image-2026-02-14-15-768x573.png 768w, https:\/\/themarymcconnell.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/generated-image-2026-02-14-15-150x112.png 150w, https:\/\/themarymcconnell.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/generated-image-2026-02-14-15.png 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/p>\n<h4 data-rm-block-id=\"block-12\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Common PTSD symptoms seen in survivors of narcissistic abuse:<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><\/h4>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\" data-rm-block-id=\"block-13\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><strong>Hypervigilance &#8211;<\/strong> After leaving the narcissistic abuse you feel a heightened sense of awareness, from walking on eggshells the entire relationship, you honestly can\u2019t let your guard down even if you try.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\" data-rm-block-id=\"block-14\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><strong>Flashbacks &#8211;<\/strong> You will have flashbacks of times in the narcissistic abuse that pop up in your mind seemingly out of nowhere. Journal it, and let your feelings process, for some reason this memory is stuck, process it, and try to keep it away.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\" data-rm-block-id=\"block-15\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><strong>Emotional numbness &#8211;<\/strong> After the narcissistic abuse your emotions are exhausted. There will be times you think damn I should be happy or sad and you feel nothing. I recently started taking 48 hours for emotions to process, I might be numb now, but give me a minute.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\" data-rm-block-id=\"block-16\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><strong>Difficulty trusting &#8211;<\/strong> You survived narcissistic abuse, you are not going to be trusting right away, if you are learning more about narcissism, you will see a narc in anyone. Take time for this one you need to heal to trust yourself, and you can\u2019t trust others until then.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\" data-rm-block-id=\"block-17\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><strong>Insomnia &#8211;<\/strong> I always keep a good book next to my bed and a notebook with a pen. Insomnia can be helped with setting routines or medical help, but it takes time to get through and the exhaustion makes dealing with things even harder.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p data-rm-block-id=\"block-18\"><em><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Nightmares are different, you can not control them. I have them regularly of my ex coming and taking my truck, the last thing I have. I wake up crying and shaking at least once a week, but I remind myself it\u2019s a dream and try to get some more rest.<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<p data-rm-block-id=\"block-19\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">PTSD and CPTSD do not have to come from one event, they can be 1000 small jabs that cause emotional and mental damage. The symptoms can be controlled and will stop but it does take time and you need to be patient with yourself. You are not broken, just shorted out in your nervous system by a narc.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2 data-rm-block-id=\"block-20\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_Narcissistic_Abuse_Rewires_the_Brain\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">How Narcissistic Abuse Rewires the Brain\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p data-rm-block-id=\"block-21\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-large wp-image-2382\" src=\"http:\/\/themarymcconnell.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/generated-image-2026-02-14-16-1024x765.png\" alt=\"Woman in bright kitchen pausing with distant stare, intrusive memory flash\u2014flashback symptom of narcissistic abuse trauma\" width=\"1024\" height=\"765\" srcset=\"https:\/\/themarymcconnell.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/generated-image-2026-02-14-16-1024x765.png 1024w, https:\/\/themarymcconnell.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/generated-image-2026-02-14-16-300x224.png 300w, https:\/\/themarymcconnell.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/generated-image-2026-02-14-16-768x573.png 768w, https:\/\/themarymcconnell.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/generated-image-2026-02-14-16-150x112.png 150w, https:\/\/themarymcconnell.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/generated-image-2026-02-14-16.png 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/p>\n<h4 data-rm-block-id=\"block-22\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">1. The Role of Chronic Emotional Trauma<\/span><\/h4>\n<p data-rm-block-id=\"block-23\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Your nervous system survived narcissistic abuse and PTSD is the part that you heal from the manipulation and gaslighting that damaged your nervous system. All the feelings of walking on eggshells do not just leave you when you leave the narc.<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><\/p>\n<p data-rm-block-id=\"block-24\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">So no you are not a dope feen but if you have left\u00a0 narcissistic abuse and PTSD has kicked in, you are detoxing from cortisol and adrenaline. Your body was used to these hormones surging with the constant ups and downs emotionally, now it\u2019s having withdrawal.<\/span><\/p>\n<p data-rm-block-id=\"block-25\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Cortisol is the stress hormone &#8211; Adrenaline is the rush hormone. Add these two together and this is what you\u2019ve had surging through you and now it\u2019s stopped. Your body is confused but will recover better than it ever was before.<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-large wp-image-2383\" src=\"http:\/\/themarymcconnell.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/generated-image-2026-02-14-17-1024x765.png\" alt=\"Woman on couch holding mug, neutral expression, emotional numbness after narcissistic abuse and PTSD\" width=\"1024\" height=\"765\" srcset=\"https:\/\/themarymcconnell.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/generated-image-2026-02-14-17-1024x765.png 1024w, https:\/\/themarymcconnell.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/generated-image-2026-02-14-17-300x224.png 300w, https:\/\/themarymcconnell.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/generated-image-2026-02-14-17-768x573.png 768w, https:\/\/themarymcconnell.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/generated-image-2026-02-14-17-150x112.png 150w, https:\/\/themarymcconnell.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/generated-image-2026-02-14-17.png 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><br \/>\n<\/span><\/p>\n<h4 data-rm-block-id=\"block-26\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">2. Key Brain Regions Affected<\/span><\/h4>\n<p data-rm-block-id=\"block-27\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">When your amygdala is overactive constantly in narcissistic abuse and PTSD starts setting in, the amygdala just stays in the overactive status, causing us as victims to be always anxious and not able to find emotional stability or regularity.<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><\/p>\n<p data-rm-block-id=\"block-28\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">With all that is going on your hippocampus struggles with memory encoding and emotional regulation because the amygdala can\u2019t provide a clear emotion, so how can the hippocampus say yes this is a happy memory, or no this is a sad one, they all go by default into the fear folder.<\/span><\/p>\n<p data-rm-block-id=\"block-29\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Now with narcissistic abuse and PTSD keeping you constantly fearful, all memories are being remembered that way and now your prefrontal cortex has to make a decision on what feeling they should have and make decisions at the same time and trust those decisions.<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-large wp-image-2384\" src=\"http:\/\/themarymcconnell.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/generated-image-2026-02-14-18-1024x765.png\" alt=\"Two women meeting at cafe, one cautious but present, difficulty trusting after narcissistic abuse recovery\" width=\"1024\" height=\"765\" srcset=\"https:\/\/themarymcconnell.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/generated-image-2026-02-14-18-1024x765.png 1024w, https:\/\/themarymcconnell.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/generated-image-2026-02-14-18-300x224.png 300w, https:\/\/themarymcconnell.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/generated-image-2026-02-14-18-768x573.png 768w, https:\/\/themarymcconnell.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/generated-image-2026-02-14-18-150x112.png 150w, https:\/\/themarymcconnell.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/generated-image-2026-02-14-18.png 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><br \/>\n<\/span><\/p>\n<h4 data-rm-block-id=\"block-30\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">3. Trauma Bonding and Learned Helplessness<\/span><\/h4>\n<p data-rm-block-id=\"block-31\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">When you are on the constant yo-yo of idealization and devaluation the brain begins to anticipate rapid shifts, so when it sounds like something is even about to go wrong, you automatically jump into your panic\/protection mode, and nothing may actually be wrong.<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><\/p>\n<p data-rm-block-id=\"block-32\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Unfortunately, the aftermath of narcissistic abuse and PTSD symptoms mimic patterns of addiction. We\u2019ve been so programmed physically and emotionally to this being the norm, we actually crave chaos because it feels normal, like an addict craves their choice addiction to feel their fix.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2 data-rm-block-id=\"block-33\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Signs_You_May_Be_Experiencing_PTSD_From_Narcissistic_Abuse\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Signs You May Be Experiencing PTSD From Narcissistic Abuse\u00a0<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p data-rm-block-id=\"block-34\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-large wp-image-2385\" src=\"http:\/\/themarymcconnell.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/generated-image-2026-02-14-572x1024.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"572\" height=\"1024\" srcset=\"https:\/\/themarymcconnell.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/generated-image-2026-02-14-572x1024.png 572w, https:\/\/themarymcconnell.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/generated-image-2026-02-14-167x300.png 167w, https:\/\/themarymcconnell.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/generated-image-2026-02-14-150x269.png 150w, https:\/\/themarymcconnell.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/generated-image-2026-02-14.png 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 572px) 100vw, 572px\" \/><\/p>\n<p data-rm-block-id=\"block-35\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><strong>You feel on edge around others, even in safe situations &#8211;<\/strong>This is normal your body and emotions are programmed to respond this way, It will dissipate over time, but be patient with yourself and use your soothing techniques to ease in.<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><\/p>\n<p data-rm-block-id=\"block-36\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><strong>You obsess over the abuser\u2019s words or behaviors &#8211;<\/strong> during our abuse we were trained that our narcissist was the ultimate authority and all knowing. You can\u2019t expect this to just leave your mind. It would be like forgetting the alphabet, only this one you can forget it just takes time.<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><\/p>\n<p data-rm-block-id=\"block-37\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><strong>You doubt your memory or perceptions &#8211;<\/strong> The narcissist has manipulated so many aspects of your life while they were in it. Things are not going to make complete sense, and you will think they were right and you are wrong. Trust yourself, you are not manipulating the truth, they are.<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><\/p>\n<p data-rm-block-id=\"block-38\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><strong>You isolate due to shame or mistrust &#8211;<\/strong> The person you thought you could trust with anything and everything has manipulated and hurt you. Again it takes time and you will trust again, but you will always be guarded, and that\u2019s kind of good to keep you from chasing another narcissist.<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><\/p>\n<p data-rm-block-id=\"block-39\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><strong>You freeze under conflict or confrontation &#8211;<\/strong> You are still learning how to have a normal non manipulated confrontation or conflict. With a narc you were always looking for manipulation so when you argue with the next person, this is again a trained behavior that will dissipate.<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><\/p>\n<p data-rm-block-id=\"block-40\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Quick tip<\/span><\/i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: If you feel like you&#8217;re still fighting battles that ended months or even years ago, you may be experiencing trauma responses and may want to discuss further with a therapist for deeper guidance\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n<h2 data-rm-block-id=\"block-41\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"The_Overlap_Between_CPTSD_and_Narcissistic_Abuse\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The Overlap Between CPTSD and Narcissistic Abuse\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p data-rm-block-id=\"block-42\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-large wp-image-2386\" src=\"http:\/\/themarymcconnell.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/generated-image-2026-02-14-19-1024x765.png\" alt=\"Woman in bed at night with book and notebook, insomnia and sleep difficulties from narcissistic abuse PTSD\" width=\"1024\" height=\"765\" srcset=\"https:\/\/themarymcconnell.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/generated-image-2026-02-14-19-1024x765.png 1024w, https:\/\/themarymcconnell.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/generated-image-2026-02-14-19-300x224.png 300w, https:\/\/themarymcconnell.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/generated-image-2026-02-14-19-768x573.png 768w, https:\/\/themarymcconnell.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/generated-image-2026-02-14-19-150x112.png 150w, https:\/\/themarymcconnell.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/generated-image-2026-02-14-19.png 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/p>\n<p data-rm-block-id=\"block-43\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Compound PTSD (CPTSD) is when you have 1000 tiny cuts that still make the same size injury as a one-time noticeable stab. You were receiving 1,000\u2019s of tiny cuts behind closed doors to your mental and emotional well being, it still does the same damage as a 1 time event.<\/span><\/p>\n<p data-rm-block-id=\"block-45\"><strong>Additional symptoms:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\" data-rm-block-id=\"block-46\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Emotional flashbacks &#8211; sometimes you will just get a twinge of fear, like the narc is watching you again, this is a flashback that you need to take a minute and think about why that happened, see if something triggers your memory of them.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\" data-rm-block-id=\"block-47\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Difficulty maintaining relationships &#8211; Every relationship you enter into when you first escape, you expect to be like the narcissist one. As you heal and meet new people you will start to see not everyone is a narc, and you can build something real.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\" data-rm-block-id=\"block-48\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Loss of self-identity &#8211; You were brainwashed into thinking you liked and disliked everything the narc did, because that was part of the control, it\u2019s now time for you to find YOU!, what do you like, what do you hate, it\u2019s ok to have an opinion.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p data-rm-block-id=\"block-49\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">When you endure long term narcissist abuse and PTSD\/CPTSD follows it is actually common, using the 1000 cuts theory, now imagine that this number is one estimate, we may have been through a billion cuts to our mental and emotional spaces. <\/span><\/p>\n<h2 data-rm-block-id=\"block-51\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_to_Begin_Healing_and_Rewire_Your_Brain\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">How to Begin Healing and Rewire Your Brain\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p data-rm-block-id=\"block-52\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-large wp-image-2387\" src=\"http:\/\/themarymcconnell.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/generated-image-2026-02-14-20-1024x765.png\" alt=\"Woman waking up in bed at night, hand on chest, breathing after nightmare\u2014PTSD symptom from narcissistic abuse\" width=\"1024\" height=\"765\" srcset=\"https:\/\/themarymcconnell.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/generated-image-2026-02-14-20-1024x765.png 1024w, https:\/\/themarymcconnell.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/generated-image-2026-02-14-20-300x224.png 300w, https:\/\/themarymcconnell.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/generated-image-2026-02-14-20-768x573.png 768w, https:\/\/themarymcconnell.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/generated-image-2026-02-14-20-150x112.png 150w, https:\/\/themarymcconnell.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/generated-image-2026-02-14-20.png 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/p>\n<h4 data-rm-block-id=\"block-53\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">1. Professional Support<\/span><\/h4>\n<p data-rm-block-id=\"block-54\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Finding trauma-informed therapy like EMDR, CBT or somatic therapy. This isn\u2019t a normal family councilor case, some do have knowledge on narcissistic abuse and PTSD, but it is a specialized field that is still expanding. These therapies do help in healing.<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><\/p>\n<p data-rm-block-id=\"block-55\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The therapist you choose should also specialize in narcissistic abuse and PTSD, not just PTSD. PTSD can come from multiple sources and each source has a different root cause. You want someone who is going to get to the root of your problem, not just clean the surface.<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-large wp-image-2388\" src=\"http:\/\/themarymcconnell.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/generated-image-2026-02-14-21-1024x765.png\" alt=\"Woman in bathroom taking deep breath, stress hormone withdrawal after leaving narcissistic abuse\" width=\"1024\" height=\"765\" srcset=\"https:\/\/themarymcconnell.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/generated-image-2026-02-14-21-1024x765.png 1024w, https:\/\/themarymcconnell.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/generated-image-2026-02-14-21-300x224.png 300w, https:\/\/themarymcconnell.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/generated-image-2026-02-14-21-768x573.png 768w, https:\/\/themarymcconnell.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/generated-image-2026-02-14-21-150x112.png 150w, https:\/\/themarymcconnell.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/generated-image-2026-02-14-21.png 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><br \/>\n<\/span><\/p>\n<h4 data-rm-block-id=\"block-56\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">2. Nervous System Regulation<\/span><\/h4>\n<p data-rm-block-id=\"block-57\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Your nervous system has been tied in knots and untied that it is not going to just return to normal when you walk away, look to mediation, gratitude, affirmations, breathwork, yoga, and grounding exercises. Try everything and use what works for you.<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><\/p>\n<p data-rm-block-id=\"block-58\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Whether you want to write it or say it. Remind yourself that you are ok, you are not in the same space, and give yourself time to heal, but use the tools in the moment, use the reflection as a way to analyze and reprogram what isn\u2019t working for you.<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-large wp-image-2389\" src=\"http:\/\/themarymcconnell.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/generated-image-2026-02-14-22-1024x765.png\" alt=\"Woman's hands holding tangled red thread beginning to unwind\u2014trauma bonding and emotional yo-yo from narcissistic abuse\" width=\"1024\" height=\"765\" srcset=\"https:\/\/themarymcconnell.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/generated-image-2026-02-14-22-1024x765.png 1024w, https:\/\/themarymcconnell.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/generated-image-2026-02-14-22-300x224.png 300w, https:\/\/themarymcconnell.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/generated-image-2026-02-14-22-768x573.png 768w, https:\/\/themarymcconnell.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/generated-image-2026-02-14-22-150x112.png 150w, https:\/\/themarymcconnell.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/generated-image-2026-02-14-22.png 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><br \/>\n<\/span><\/p>\n<h4 data-rm-block-id=\"block-59\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">3. Rebuilding Self-Worth and Identity<\/span><\/h4>\n<p data-rm-block-id=\"block-60\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This is the new you after you heal from narcissistic abuse and PTSD, it helps to have routines, and establishing new routines is a way of separating yourself from what you went through, I used to have coffee every morning, now I have an energy drink.<\/span><\/p>\n<p data-rm-block-id=\"block-61\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">I know it sounds small, but small changes are a starting point. You don\u2019t have to make big changes, even small routine changes can change your mind set and thought processes.<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><\/p>\n<p data-rm-block-id=\"block-62\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">When you are ready and only when you are ready, take time and analyze people from your past and their behavior, reconnecting with safe people is healthy, but watch out for the flying monkeys. If it feels funky, it probably is funky. Better safe than sorry. Cut and run when needed.<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><\/p>\n<p data-rm-block-id=\"block-63\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You are all you got and all you need. Practice self-compassion. You handled the abuse alone and can handle the healing alone, yes, it is nice to have other people&#8217;s compassion, but some nights it\u2019s not available. So love yourself and take care of yourself.<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-large wp-image-2390\" src=\"http:\/\/themarymcconnell.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/generated-image-2026-02-14-23-1024x765.png\" alt=\"Woman opening front door to daylight, stepping outside with keys\u2014overcoming learned helplessness after narcissistic abuse\" width=\"1024\" height=\"765\" srcset=\"https:\/\/themarymcconnell.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/generated-image-2026-02-14-23-1024x765.png 1024w, https:\/\/themarymcconnell.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/generated-image-2026-02-14-23-300x224.png 300w, https:\/\/themarymcconnell.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/generated-image-2026-02-14-23-768x573.png 768w, https:\/\/themarymcconnell.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/generated-image-2026-02-14-23-150x112.png 150w, https:\/\/themarymcconnell.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/generated-image-2026-02-14-23.png 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><br \/>\n<\/span><\/p>\n<h4 data-rm-block-id=\"block-64\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">4. Go No Contact or Low Contact<\/span><\/h4>\n<p data-rm-block-id=\"block-65\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Limiting and\/or ending contact with a narc is crucial to heal from narcissistic abuse and PTSD. Remember the 1000 cut theory, if you heal the cuts why do you want to get cut again if you can avoid it. Your neurological and emotional space need to heal from the cuts.<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><\/p>\n<p data-rm-block-id=\"block-66\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Helpful Box<\/span><\/i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: \u201cHealing doesn\u2019t mean you forget your past, it just means your past no longer controls your present.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n<h2 data-rm-block-id=\"block-67\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_Long_Does_It_Take_to_Heal\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">How Long Does It Take to Heal?\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p data-rm-block-id=\"block-68\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-large wp-image-2391\" src=\"http:\/\/themarymcconnell.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/generated-image-2026-02-14-24-1024x765.png\" alt=\"Woman at kitchen table looking out window, phone face-down, isolation due to shame after narcissistic abuse\" width=\"1024\" height=\"765\" srcset=\"https:\/\/themarymcconnell.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/generated-image-2026-02-14-24-1024x765.png 1024w, https:\/\/themarymcconnell.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/generated-image-2026-02-14-24-300x224.png 300w, https:\/\/themarymcconnell.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/generated-image-2026-02-14-24-768x573.png 768w, https:\/\/themarymcconnell.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/generated-image-2026-02-14-24-150x112.png 150w, https:\/\/themarymcconnell.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/generated-image-2026-02-14-24.png 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/p>\n<p data-rm-block-id=\"block-69\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Healing from narcissistic abuse and PTSD takes time, and not one of us will heal at the same pace, because not one of us shares the exact same story. We do have similarities though that we can use to help each other through the healing process.<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><\/p>\n<p data-rm-block-id=\"block-70\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">I would love to tell everyone that on day 387 in your healing journey you will wake up healed. There is no timeline in healing from narcissist abuse and PTSD, with CPTSD you timeline may be completely different as well.<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><\/p>\n<p data-rm-block-id=\"block-71\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Just because you are not healed fully on day 387 keep working on yourself and show yourself patience. This is an entirely new thing that we have never done before. We will make mistakes and it will take time to heal and we don\u2019t know how long until it happens.<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><\/p>\n<p data-rm-block-id=\"block-72\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-large wp-image-2392\" src=\"http:\/\/themarymcconnell.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/generated-image-2026-02-14-25-1024x765.png\" alt=\"narcissistic abuse and ptsd\" width=\"1024\" height=\"765\" srcset=\"https:\/\/themarymcconnell.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/generated-image-2026-02-14-25-1024x765.png 1024w, https:\/\/themarymcconnell.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/generated-image-2026-02-14-25-300x224.png 300w, https:\/\/themarymcconnell.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/generated-image-2026-02-14-25-768x573.png 768w, https:\/\/themarymcconnell.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/generated-image-2026-02-14-25-150x112.png 150w, https:\/\/themarymcconnell.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/generated-image-2026-02-14-25.png 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/p>\n<p data-rm-block-id=\"block-73\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You\u2019re not \u201ccrazy\u201d your brain is responding to trauma and when you are healing from narcissistic abuse and PTSD, the narcissist has already programmed you to jump to the crazy card, but you&#8217;re not, you are healing from abuse.<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><\/p>\n<p data-rm-block-id=\"block-74\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Recovery and a full healing are possible, but it takes time, work and self love. You are rewiring your brain for peace and stability, something you haven\u2019t had in a long time, so this is a whole new skill to learn. Be patient.<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><\/p>\n<p data-rm-block-id=\"block-75\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you\u2019re noticing signs of narcissistic abuse or you feel stuck in a narcissistic relationship, you\u2019re not alone \u2014 and it\u2019s not your fault. What you\u2019re experiencing is real, and healing is possible.<\/span><\/p>\n<p data-rm-block-id=\"block-76\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">For more support, visit<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.themarymcconnell.com\/\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">https:\/\/www.themarymcconnell.com<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> for free educational resources, recovery tools, and guidance to help you recognize toxic patterns, rebuild your self-trust, and move forward safely.<\/span><\/p>\n<p data-rm-block-id=\"block-77\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you need immediate help, support is available 24\/7: <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">National Domestic Violence Hotline<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.thehotline.org\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">https:\/\/www.thehotline.org\/<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> (1-800-799-7233), <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Crisis Text Line<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> (Text HOME to 741741), and <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">988<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> (Suicide &amp; Crisis Lifeline).<\/span><\/p>\n<p data-rm-block-id=\"block-78\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Have you dealt with a narcissist or recovered from narcissistic abuse? If you feel safe, share your experience in the comments \u2014 your story might be the moment someone else realizes they\u2019re not \u201ccrazy,\u201d they\u2019re being harmed.<\/span><\/p>\n<p data-rm-block-id=\"block-79\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Looking for more guidance on narcissism and recovery? Explore the related articles below on boundaries, gaslighting, love bombing, and healing after narcissistic abuse to keep building your path to emotional freedom.<\/span><\/p>\n<p data-rm-block-id=\"block-81\"><a href=\"https:\/\/themarymcconnell.com\/blog\/narcissist-eyes\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The Hidden Meaning Behind the Narcissist Eyes<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n<p data-rm-block-id=\"block-82\"><a href=\"https:\/\/themarymcconnell.com\/blog\/why-do-narcissists-want-to-hurt-you\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Why Do Narcissists Want to Hurt You: The Truth Behind Their Manipulative Behavior<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n<p data-rm-block-id=\"block-83\"><a href=\"https:\/\/themarymcconnell.com\/blog\/how-to-expose-a-narcissist\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">How to Expose a Narcissist Safely Without Falling Into Their Trap<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n<p data-rm-block-id=\"block-84\"><a href=\"https:\/\/themarymcconnell.com\/blog\/what-does-narc-mean\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">What Does Narc Mean? A Deep Dive into Narcissism and Its Impact on Relationships<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n<p data-rm-block-id=\"block-85\"><a href=\"https:\/\/themarymcconnell.com\/blog\/narcissist-and-the-silent-treatment\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Narcissist and the Silent Treatment: How to Recognize, Respond and Reclaim Your Voice<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n<p data-rm-block-id=\"block-86\"><a href=\"https:\/\/themarymcconnell.com\/blog\/narcissist-at-work\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Dealing with a Narcissist at Work: 9 Survival Strategies to Protect Your Sanity and Career<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n<p data-rm-block-id=\"block-87\"><a href=\"https:\/\/themarymcconnell.com\/blog\/how-to-shut-down-a-narcissist\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">How to Shut Down a Narcissist: 7 Powerful Responses to Silence Them<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n<p data-rm-block-id=\"block-88\"><a href=\"https:\/\/themarymcconnell.com\/blog\/narcissistic-traits-in-males\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Narcissistic Traits in Males: 12 Disturbing Signs You Can\u2019t Ignore<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n<p data-rm-block-id=\"block-89\"><a href=\"https:\/\/themarymcconnell.com\/blog\/do-narcissists-know-they-are-narcissists\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Do Narcissists Know They Are Narcissists? The Truth About Their Self-Perception and Denial<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n<p data-rm-block-id=\"block-90\"><a href=\"https:\/\/themarymcconnell.com\/blog\/how-does-the-narcissist-feel-when-you-move-on\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">How Does the Narcissist Feel When You Move On: The Shocking Truth They Don\u2019t Want You to Know!<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n<p data-rm-block-id=\"block-91\"><a href=\"https:\/\/themarymcconnell.com\/blog\/are-narcissists-evil\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Are Narcissists Evil or Products of Their Past?<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n<p data-rm-block-id=\"block-92\"><a href=\"https:\/\/themarymcconnell.com\/blog\/narcissist-love-bombing\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Narcissist Love Bombing: How to Spot the Signs Before It\u2019s Too Late<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n<p data-rm-block-id=\"block-93\"><a href=\"https:\/\/themarymcconnell.com\/blog\/narcissist-quotes\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">40 Eye-Opening Narcissist Quotes That Reveal How Narcissists Think and Manipulate<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n<p data-rm-block-id=\"block-94\"><a href=\"https:\/\/themarymcconnell.com\/blog\/what-causes-narcissism\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">What Causes Narcissism: Find Out About Its Origins<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n<p data-rm-block-id=\"block-95\"><a href=\"https:\/\/themarymcconnell.com\/blog\/signs-you-are-healing-from-narcissistic-abuse\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">10 Empowering Signs You\u2019re Healing from Narcissistic Abuse<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n<p data-rm-block-id=\"block-96\"><a href=\"https:\/\/themarymcconnell.com\/blog\/things-narcissists-say\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Things Narcissists Say: 18 Classic Phrases That Reveal Their True Personality<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n<p data-rm-block-id=\"block-97\"><a href=\"https:\/\/themarymcconnell.com\/blog\/narcissistic-family\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The Toxic Dynamics of a Narcissistic Family: How Control and Silence Keep the Cycle Alive<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n<p data-rm-block-id=\"block-98\"><a href=\"https:\/\/themarymcconnell.com\/blog\/narcissistic-victim-syndrome\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Narcissistic Victim Syndrome: Everything You Need to Know<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n<p data-rm-block-id=\"block-99\"><a href=\"https:\/\/themarymcconnell.com\/blog\/can-a-narcissist-change-for-the-right-woman\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Can a Narcissist Change for the Right Woman? Why Love Alone Isn\u2019t Enough to Fix Them<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n<p data-rm-block-id=\"block-100\"><a href=\"https:\/\/themarymcconnell.com\/blog\/long-term-effects-of-narcissistic-abuse\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Understanding and Overcoming the Long-Term Effects of Narcissistic Abuse<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n<p data-rm-block-id=\"block-101\"><a href=\"https:\/\/themarymcconnell.com\/blog\/how-to-break-up-with-a-narcissist\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">How to Break Up with a Narcissist: The Step-by-Step Guide to Leaving Without Losing Yourself<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n<p data-rm-block-id=\"block-102\"><a href=\"https:\/\/themarymcconnell.com\/blog\/how-are-narcissists-created\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">How Are Narcissists Created: Uncovering the Deep-Rooted Causes of Narcissism<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n<p data-rm-block-id=\"block-103\"><a href=\"https:\/\/themarymcconnell.com\/blog\/stages-of-narcissistic-abuse\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The Stages of Narcissistic Abuse Explained and How to Break the Cycle<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n<p data-rm-block-id=\"block-104\"><a href=\"https:\/\/themarymcconnell.com\/blog\/no-contact-with-the-narcissist\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The Ultimate Guide to No Contact with the Narcissist: How to Stay Strong, Set Boundaries and Heal for Good<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n<p data-rm-block-id=\"block-105\">\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>\u201cwhy can\u2019t I just move on?\u201d How many times do you ask this question after you\u2019ve left the narcissist? Did you realize&#8230;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":2743,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_kad_blocks_custom_css":"","_kad_blocks_head_custom_js":"","_kad_blocks_body_custom_js":"","_kad_blocks_footer_custom_js":"","_kadence_starter_templates_imported_post":false,"_kad_post_transparent":"default","_kad_post_title":"default","_kad_post_layout":"default","_kad_post_sidebar_id":"","_kad_post_content_style":"default","_kad_post_vertical_padding":"default","_kad_post_feature":"","_kad_post_feature_position":"","_kad_post_header":false,"_kad_post_footer":false,"_kad_post_classname":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[76],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-2378","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-narcissistic-manipulation-tactics"],"taxonomy_info":{"category":[{"value":76,"label":"Narcissistic Manipulation Tactics"}]},"featured_image_src_large":["https:\/\/themarymcconnell.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Re-EDIT-37.jpg",1024,576,false],"author_info":{"display_name":"Mary McConnell","author_link":"https:\/\/themarymcconnell.com\/blog\/author\/marymc206outlook-com\/"},"comment_info":"","category_info":[{"term_id":76,"name":"Narcissistic Manipulation Tactics","slug":"narcissistic-manipulation-tactics","term_group":0,"term_taxonomy_id":76,"taxonomy":"category","description":"Discover the most common narcissistic manipulation tactics, from gaslighting and blame-shifting to guilt and control, so you can spot the patterns and protect yourself.","parent":0,"count":19,"filter":"raw","cat_ID":76,"category_count":19,"category_description":"Discover the most common narcissistic manipulation tactics, from gaslighting and blame-shifting to guilt and control, so you can spot the patterns and protect yourself.","cat_name":"Narcissistic Manipulation Tactics","category_nicename":"narcissistic-manipulation-tactics","category_parent":0}],"tag_info":false,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/themarymcconnell.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2378","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/themarymcconnell.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/themarymcconnell.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/themarymcconnell.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/themarymcconnell.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=2378"}],"version-history":[{"count":7,"href":"https:\/\/themarymcconnell.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2378\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":2745,"href":"https:\/\/themarymcconnell.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2378\/revisions\/2745"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/themarymcconnell.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/2743"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/themarymcconnell.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=2378"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/themarymcconnell.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=2378"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/themarymcconnell.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=2378"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}