Exploitation with Narcissistic Abuse
by: Todd Doyle, International Author of Healing the Shattered: Surviving Narcissistic Abuse
Self-esteem is an individual’s overall sense of self-worth and self-acceptance. It is an important aspect of mental health and well-being, and it can be seriously impacted by narcissistic abuse. Narcissistic individuals often use manipulation, exploitation, and control in their relationships to get their needs met and maintain a sense of power and control. This can leave their victims feeling confused, isolated, and unsure of their own worth.
If you have been a victim of narcissistic abuse, it is important to recognize that the abuse is not your fault and that you are worthy of love, respect, and healthy relationships. It may be difficult to rebuild your self-esteem after experiencing narcissistic abuse, but it is a crucial step in healing and moving forward.
Narcissists are professionals when it comes to exploiting their victims. They can use exploitation to psychologically blackmail their victims into submission. All narcissists want to use exploitation tactics to extra supply from their targets. If you feel exploited by a narcissist, know that you aren’t alone.
Here are some tips for improving your self-esteem after narcissistic abuse:
1. Seek support: It can be helpful to seek support from friends, family, a therapist, or a support group to help you work through the emotional impact of the abuse. Surrounding yourself with supportive people who validate your feelings and experiences can help you rebuild your self-esteem.
2. Practice self-care: Taking care of yourself physically, emotionally, and mentally is an important step in improving your self-esteem. This may involve engaging in activities that nourish your body and mind, such as exercise, healthy eating, and engaging in hobbies or activities that bring you joy.
3. Set boundaries: Setting and enforcing healthy boundaries is an important aspect of self-care and self-esteem. By communicating your limits and expectations clearly and consistently, you can protect yourself from further abuse and establish a sense of autonomy and self-respect.
4. Seek therapy: Working with a therapist can be a helpful way to process the emotional impact of the abuse and work through any feelings of low self-esteem. A therapist can help you develop healthy coping strategies and work through any underlying issues that may have contributed to your vulnerability to narcissistic abuse.
5. Challenge negative thoughts: It is common for individuals who have experienced narcissistic abuse to have negative thoughts about themselves and their worth. It is important to recognize and challenge these thoughts, and to practice self-compassion and self-forgiveness.
The feeling of exploitation by a narcissist will last for some time as you begin to break the trauma bond after you’re discarded. If you’re looking for hope and ways to heal then I urge you to read my book Healing the Shattered: Surviving Narcissistic Abuse. It’s a true story about how I literally survived narcissistic abuse perpetrated against me by a female narcissist.
Improving your self-esteem after narcissistic abuse takes time and effort, but it is an important step in healing and moving forward. By seeking support, practicing self-care, setting boundaries, and challenging negative thoughts, you can begin to rebuild your self-esteem and create a healthy, fulfilling life for yourself.
