Do you even know that narcissistic abuse has several silent ways of creeping into your daily life? You just wake up one day feeling drained, anxious, or like you’re constantly walking on eggshells, even when no one is around to criticize you. That’s because narcissistic abuse doesn’t just disappear when the person is gone; it leaves little traps in your mind, shaping how you see yourself and the world. So, let’s talk about these silent ways it creeps in, because once you see them, you can start taking back control. Are you ready for number one?
1. Doubting your perception of reality: Have you ever been sure something happened, only for someone to convince you it didn’t? That’s the silent poison of narcissistic abuse. It makes you doubt your reality. You remember them saying something hurtful, but when you bring it up, they deny it, call you too sensitive, or say you’re imagining things. Over time, you start questioning yourself and apologizing for things that weren’t your fault. As psychoanalyst Dr. Robin Stern explains in her book, The Gaslight Effect, gaslighting erodes your sense of reality until you rely on the abuser to define it for you. The worst part is that it leaks into your everyday life. You might start second-guessing yourself at work, hesitating before speaking up in meetings because you’re afraid of being wrong. Even picking a meal can feel stressful if you’re used to being told that your choices aren’t good enough. But here’s the truth: your perception isn’t broken; it’s been manipulated. The first step to breaking free is recognizing that your thoughts and feelings are valid, no matter how much someone tries to rewrite your story.
2. Fear of expressing opinions: Sharing your opinion can feel like walking in a minefield. You hesitate before speaking, wondering if what you say will be used against you later. Maybe you once shared an idea only to be mocked or told you were wrong in a condescending tone. Over time, this kind of treatment teaches you to stay silent rather than risk criticism. Dr. Lindsay C. Gibson, author of Adult Children of Emotionally Immature Parents, explains that victims of emotional abuse often suppress their thoughts because they’ve been conditioned to believe their voice doesn’t matter. When someone constantly invalidates your opinions, you start second-guessing yourself before you even speak. This fear doesn’t just stop with the abuser; it follows you into everyday life. You might hold back in conversations with friends or avoid debates at work, worried that expressing yourself will lead to conflict or rejection. Remember this: your opinions do matter, and no one has the right to silence you. Rebuilding your confidence starts with small steps, whether it’s voicing your thoughts in safe spaces or reminding yourself that your perspective is just as valid as anyone else’s.
Continue reading on the next page
Sharing is caring!
Leave a Comment