How to leave a narcissist : 10 tips
3 . You ’ ve been manipulated
Being in a relationship with a narcissist involves being subjected to manipulative tactics . The psychological effects of these tactics are so strong that experts have begun to refer to them as narcissistic abuse . Being a victim of this extreme form of manipulation can lead you to believe that you are crazy or that you are to blame for all the problems in the relationship .
Instead of leaving and seeking something better , you may stay around because your self-esteem is so low that you believe you are not worthy of having a better relationship .
4 . You have no identity outside of the relationship
When you spend time in a relationship with a narcissist , you ’ ll probably give up most of your interests and hobbies because all your attention is fixated on placating the narcissist . You have also likely been isolated from family and friends , so you truly have nothing outside your relationship . This makes it even more difficult to figure out how to leave a narcissist because you ’ ll be entirely alone if you end the relationship .
5 . You ’ ve become addicted to the relationship
Keep in mind that a relationship with a narcissist often results in trauma bonding , meaning that you become emotionally dependent upon the narcissist . This can become a form of addiction , in which you crave the highs of the relationship ( when the narcissist is being affectionate ) and crash during the lows .
6 . Fear of retaliation
Narcissists have no trouble taking advantage of people for their gain , so they may coerce you into staying with them by making you fearful of leaving . For example , they may say that they will share your darkest secrets or get you in trouble if you leave . If you ’ re married , they may threaten to take custody of the children if you file for divorce .
How to leave a narcissist : 10 tips
The psychological effects of narcissistic relationships make it difficult to break up with a narcissist , but there are effective steps you can take to make leaving easier .
If you ’ re ready to break free , use the tips below to help you figure out how to leave a narcissist .