Strategies for Thriving After Narcissistic Family Relationships
Introduction:
Family, often synonymous with love and support, can become a breeding ground for pain when a member displays narcissistic traits. Discarding loved ones for the new supply usually involves a callous severance of ties, that adds a layer of heartbreak to an already toxic relationship. In this blog, we will explore the characteristics of narcissistic behavior, delve into the reasons behind family discard, and discuss the transformative power of hypnosis and trauma-informed coaching in the healing journey.
Understanding Narcissism:
Narcissism, a personality disorder characterized by an inflated sense of self-importance and a lack of empathy, can wreak havoc on familial bonds. Within the family unit, these traits disrupt the natural ebb and flow of love, trust, and understanding.
The Narcissistic Discard:
Being involved with a toxic individual like a narcissist is a gut-wrenching experience, marked by emotional, sexual, financial, and other forms of abuse. Couple that with the abrupt termination of connections between the narcissist and the family, who are unsuspecting, can make it worse.
In many cases, it begins with emotional withdrawal because they have already gotten a new supply. Then it later escalates to cutoffs or physical distancing. The reasons behind this discard are often complex, involving threats to the narcissist’s ego as the narcissist has the desire for control or a search for new sources of admiration. They move on rather quickly (typically have a relationship before the other one ends) to termination relationships with family members like children, spouses, grandchildren, and so on.
Reasons Behind Family Discard:
- Ego Preservation: A perceived threat to the narcissist’s ego, such as a family member asserting independence or questioning their authority, can trigger the discard. The narcissist prioritizes ego preservation over familial bonds.
- Control Dynamics: Seeking to dominate their surroundings, narcissists may discard family members if they sense a loss of control. The act serves as a means to reestablish power and assert dominance.
- Constant Search for Admiration: The insatiable need for attention and admiration drives narcissists. Discarding family may occur when they believe they can find more favorable sources elsewhere to fulfill their narcissistic desires. Again, they often have these supplies in place before they discard family.
Coping with Narcissistic Discard:
- Acceptance and Self-Reflection: Acknowledging the reality of the discard and understanding that it reflects the narcissist’s issues, not your worth, is pivotal. Self-reflection and emotional healing allow you to detach emotionally from the narcissist’s actions.
- Setting Healthy Boundaries: Establishing clear boundaries, if possible, safeguards emotional well-being. Limiting contact with the narcissistic family member helps prevent further harm and promotes healing.
- Seeking External Support: Reach out to support friends or others who have been through it can help, or join groups like my Wounded Warrior for support can be valuable. Sharing experiences with those who understand and validate your feelings provides a crucial support system.
- Embracing Self-Care: Prioritize self-care as a means of rebuilding emotional strength. Engage in activities that bring joy, practice mindfulness, and attend to your physical and mental well-being.
The Role of Hypnosis and Trauma-Informed Coaching:
- Hypnosis for Emotional Healing: Hypnosis can be a powerful tool in processing and releasing emotional trauma associated with narcissistic discard. It helps reframe negative thought patterns and fosters a sense of empowerment, aiding in the journey towards emotional healing.
- Trauma-Informed Coaching: Coaching that is trauma-informed focuses on understanding and addressing the impact of trauma on an individual’s life. Trauma-informed coaching can provide tools to navigate the complex emotions tied to narcissistic discard and support the development of resilience and coping strategies.
- Mind-Body Medicine Tools: Mind-body medicine has a lot of easy-to-integrate tools. One of those tools that I teach my clients is Breathwork Techniques: Deep, intentional breathing exercises can be instrumental in managing anxiety and promoting emotional release. Breathing techniques enhance self-regulation and provide a tool for navigating moments of heightened stress.
Conclusion:
Healing from narcissistic family discard requires a multifaceted approach. Understanding the reasons behind the discard, setting boundaries, seeking support, and embracing self-care are vital components. Incorporating hypnosis and trauma-informed coaching into the healing journey adds powerful tools to the arsenal, facilitating emotional release and empowering individuals to rebuild their lives with healthier relationships. Remember, your worth is not determined by the actions of a narcissistic family member, and with the right support, transformation and healing are within reach.