If you’re doing these seven strange things, you need to stop—it’s bad for you. If you’ve been through narcissistic abuse, you might not even realize you’re engaging in behaviors that hurt your mental and emotional health. These behaviors can emerge when you’re trying to cope, but the truth is, they’re only keeping you stuck in the cycle of abuse.
Today, we’re going to talk about those strange habits that victims of narcissistic abuse often fall into at home, why they happen, and most importantly, how to break free from them. It’s time to stop letting these behaviors control you and start taking back your life. Are you ready for number one?
1. Excessive Caretaking
Being around a narcissist often means bending over backward to meet their every whim, like perfecting their coffee or reshuffling your entire schedule for them. Their approval feels like the only way to keep the peace. Dr. Lindsay Gibson, author of “Adult Children of Emotionally Immature Parents,” explains that people often adopt these behaviors to avoid emotional explosions or rejection. You’re managing their emotions to prevent conflict, even if it means ignoring your own needs. It’s exhausting, but it feels safer than standing your ground.
The thing is, this kind of caretaking becomes a habit, and you might even do it unconsciously. It’s like living on autopilot, constantly scanning for ways to keep them happy so you don’t have to deal with their rage or cold shoulder. This behavior stems from what psychologists call fawning, a trauma response where you appease someone to avoid harm. But by overcompensating, you’re reinforcing their belief that the world should revolve around them. You deserve relationships where care goes both ways, not one where you’re always the emotional caretaker.
Continue reading on the next page
Sharing is caring!
