One of the greatest traumas imaginable is when parents have to deal with the separation of a child. Mostly by divorce or the state legislature. Producing greater stress than dealing with the relationship-loss of a parent or spouse, a child’s absense is especially traumatic because it is often unexpected; it is also in violation of the "usual" order of things, in which the child is expected to "flock" away from the parent and start college: a profession, area of study or just their own household.
It's called "identity loss". Crafting a self-identity is an ongoing process that most people dont give much concrete thought to it just kind of happens. You slowly build interests and dreams. You take jobs, learn things, and experience different activities. This all shapes who you are, what you believe, and how you express yourself. Then a narcissist enters your life. Well, they become your life: all your thoughts, feelings, hopes, words, and actions are ultimately subservient to them.
But hear's the point of you visiting this page: Generally, when a narcissistic abuse survivor forms new relationships, whether romantic or otherwise, they often feel paralyzed by thoughts of being too sensitive or over reacting. It is now up to you to acknowledg this step of healing and manage new triggers.
It's that space between: 1) I don't need therapy, 2) my new friends don't REALLY care, and 3) and I no longer wish to identify as a 'healing victim'. Your in a place of loss of identity and C-PTSD, into two sections to accomplish one goal: Learn how to recover healthy communication after a narcissistic relationship. Let's get to work
Great read and am impressed with the work of the authors and this organization.
