Now, back to the topic. It’s a strong statement to say that narcissists “ruin” people, but the reality is that they often chip away at your core. Even the most patient person can find themselves feeling frayed and worn down. Please don’t think of it as something you “should have” handled better; you’ve already done so much, likely more than most people could. But these individuals know precisely how to push your buttons, eroding your self-worth over time. They accomplish this through constant criticism, devaluation, and manipulation.
When you’re being criticized repeatedly, especially by someone close, it takes a toll. After enough time, you may start to believe the negative things they say, leading to doubts about your self-worth and abilities. Their goal is often to distort your perception of reality, a manipulation tactic known as gaslighting. Constant manipulation like this can break down anyone’s resilience over time.
The toll of their behavior leaves emotional scars, draining your energy and making it difficult to feel like yourself. You may feel anxious, overthink everything, and lose touch with your own identity, even questioning who you are. This loss of self can be one of the most painful parts of the experience. And even once a narcissist is out of your life, the emotional scars remain.
These effects can cause you to feel guilt, self-blame, and even trust issues—not only in relationships with others but also in trusting yourself. It’s crucial to reconnect with who you are, to trust yourself again, and to rebuild a sense of boundaries and self-worth.
Please know that if you’re experiencing any of these feelings, they are valid, and you can get through this. Understanding what has happened can be a powerful first step toward healing.
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