🌸 Introduction: Why Do I Feel So Confused Around Them?
Have you ever felt like someone is always right, and you’re always wrong – even when you know the truth? Do you feel drained, small, or worthless after talking to them, but can’t understand why?
These could be signs of narcissistic abuse.
👉 What is the problem?
Narcissistic abuse happens when someone with narcissistic traits (extreme selfishness, lack of empathy) controls, manipulates, or hurts others for their own needs.
👉 What are the symptoms?
- Feeling constantly criticised or blamed
- Doubting your memory and decisions
- Feeling scared to speak up
- Believing everything is your fault
👉 What is the solution?
Learning to spot these signs early helps you protect yourself, set boundaries, and seek help to heal.
Let’s understand this deeply.
💡 What Exactly Is Narcissistic Abuse?
Narcissistic abuse is when a person uses words or actions to control, confuse, or hurt someone to feel powerful. It often happens in families, friendships, or relationships where one person only cares about themselves.
🚩 Why Do They Do This?
People with strong narcissistic traits:
- Think they are better than everyone else
- Do not care about others’ feelings
- Feel happy when they control or win over others
🛑 Key Signs You’re Being Manipulated
Here are clear signs of narcissistic abuse:
✅ 1. Gaslighting
They tell you things like:
- “That never happened.”
- “You’re too sensitive.”
- “You’re imagining things.”
👉 This makes you doubt your memory and reality.
✅ 2. Constant Criticism
They keep finding faults in you – how you talk, dress, or even breathe – making you feel never good enough.
✅ 3. Love Bombing Then Ignoring
At first, they treat you like the most special person with gifts, praise, and love. Suddenly, they ignore you or act cold, making you desperate to get their love back.
✅ 4. Controlling Your Life
They decide who you talk to, where you go, what you wear. You start feeling like a puppet with no control.
✅ 5. No Empathy
When you are sad or hurt, they don’t care. They may say you are dramatic or weak.
💔 How Does Narcissistic Abuse Affect You?
Living with narcissistic abuse can make you feel:
- Always anxious or walking on eggshells
- Afraid to speak your mind
- Like you have lost your true self
- Lonely and confused
🌱 How To Protect Yourself?
✅ 1. Learn & Identify
Know the signs. Read about narcissistic abuse so you can spot manipulation early.
✅ 2. Set Strong Boundaries
Say “No” firmly when needed. Don’t explain yourself too much to someone who twists your words.
✅ 3. Seek Help
Talk to a trusted adult, school counsellor, friend, or therapist. Narcissistic abuse is confusing – sharing helps you see things clearly.
✅ 4. Remember Your Worth
Their words do not define you. Repeat to yourself:
“I am worthy of love and respect. I deserve kindness.”
✨ Final Thoughts: You Are Not Alone
If you feel trapped in someone’s controlling behaviour, know that it is not your fault. Many people go through this silently, thinking they are to blame. But the truth is:
Real love never makes you feel small or scared.
Learning about narcissistic abuse is the first step to break free, heal, and build a life where you feel safe, confident, and respected.
💛 About The Author
Written by Dr. Bhumika Malik, Psychiatrist & Founder of MyMindDiaries — making mental health relatable for your daily life.
💬 I’d love to hear your thoughts on this. Have you ever experienced something similar? Share in the comments below!