Why Leaving a Narcissist Feels Worse Before It Gets Better
If you expect yourself to quickly get better after leaving the narcissist or after going no-contact and not be affected by what has happened in the past, you are setting yourself up for a lot of pain and disappointment.
Breaking free from a narcissistic relationship is no small feat, but why does it often feel like things get worse before they get better? In this episode, Danish Bashir, a seasoned expert in narcissistic abuse recovery, dives deep into the emotional turmoil that follows such a departure. He unpacks the reasons behind this unsettling phenomenon, shedding light on how the constant state of hypervigilance during the relationship can lead to what feels like a traumatic brain injury.
Danish also discusses how ingrained self-destructive habits can make the healing process even more challenging. But it's not all doom and gloom. He emphasizes the importance of self-compassion and patience, explaining that these are key to overcoming complex post-traumatic stress and other lingering effects of narcissistic abuse. If you're struggling with the aftermath of leaving a narcissist, this episode offers a compassionate guide to understanding and navigating your path to recovery.