narcissistic abuse

Narcissistic abuse is a pattern of psychological, emotional, and sometimes physical harm carried out by someone with narcissistic traits or disorder. It typically follows predictable phases—idealization (love-bombing), devaluation, and discard—often repeated in cycles that keep the target hooked and hoping for the "good" version of the person to return.

Common tactics include gaslighting, triangulation, smear campaigns, silent treatments, and twisting the target's reality until they no longer trust themselves. The damage is cumulative: survivors often leave with chronic anxiety, complex PTSD, deep self-doubt, and a shattered sense of identity. Recovery requires recognizing the pattern, grieving the relationship that was never what it seemed, and rebuilding a life rooted in reality, safety, and self-trust.