It is distressing to deal with a narcissist and the trauma they cause. Narcissistic discard and gaslighting are two common tactics used by a narcissist during their relationship with their victim. The effects of these tactics can be devastating and may leave the victim feeling confused,
powerless, and unable to move forward in life. In this blog, we will discuss what narcissistic discard and gaslighting are, how to recognize and understand codependency, strategies for overcoming the narcissistic discard and gaslighting, how to set healthy boundaries, how to practice self-care and create self-esteem, how to practice mindful communication, and how to seek professional help and support.
What are Narcissistic Gaslighting and Discard?
Narcissistic gaslighting and discard are used by a narcissist to manipulate and control their victim. The narcissist will use these tactics to make their victim feel as if they are not worth anything, invisible and to make them feel powerless. Gaslighting is when the narcissist manipulates the victim into questioning their reality and beliefs, making them doubt their thoughts and feelings. Narcissistic discard is when the narcissist abruptly ends the relationship and acts as if the victim no longer exists.
The narcissist’s underdeveloped personality is often the root cause of them
using these tactics. Narcissists have an inflated sense of self and an
extreme need for admiration and attention. They lack empathy and are
unable to form meaningful relationships with shallow emotional
understanding or application.
The Effects of Narcissistic Gaslighting and Discard
The effects of narcissistic gaslighting and discard are devastating for the victim. They often feel confused, and powerless, and may even struggle with depression and anxiety. It can be difficult to move forward in life after being on the receiving end of narcissistic discard.
The victim may also be struggling with unrealized codependency. Codependency, is easiest described as when a person’s sense of self-worth, mental-emotional, and psychological value is significantly based on their relationship with other people and their feedback; easily recognized
and manipulated by the narcissist. The codependent may feel as if they need the narcissist to feel complete and worthy. This is a difficult cycle to break, as it can be hard to find a sense of self-worth without feedback and validation from the other, the narcissist.
If you suspect codependency might be a part of your cycle of toxic relationships, please contact Narc & Co for a free consultation and begin taking your control of your worth today.
Recognizing and Understanding Codependency
To overcome narcissistic gaslighting and discard, it is important to recognize and understand codependency. The first step is to recognize the codependent behavior, which will inevitably include people pleasing, constantly seeking approval from others, feeling as if external relationships are the only thing that matter, poor self-esteem, difficulty making decisions,
fear of abandonment and an exaggerated sense of responsibility.
Once the codependent behaviors have been identified, it is important to understand why they are occurring. This can be done by exploring underlying core beliefs and fears that may be driving the codependent behavior. It can also be helpful to identify toxic relationships or experiences
that may be contributing to codependency. The Narc & Co team offers an affordable guide through this self-discovery process.
Strategies for Overcoming the Narcissistic Gaslighting
With the right support and learning environment a person can learn to break down their codependent traits. It is important to set healthy boundaries and practice self-care to move forward in life. It is also important to practice mindful communication and to be patient and kind to yourself. Most people progress faster if they seek professional help and support.
How to Set Healthy Boundaries
Healthy boundaries are necessary to protect yourself from manipulation, control and unhealthy toxic people who will always return to prey on your energy and giving nature. It is important to be clear and firm when setting boundaries and to remember that you have the right to say no. It can be helpful to practice assertive communication and to set boundaries in all areas of your life.
How to Practice Self-Care and Create Self-Esteem
Practicing self-care is essential for overcoming narcissistic discard and gaslighting. Self-care can help to create a sense of self-worth and to build self-esteem. It is important to focus on activities that make you feel good and to take time for yourself. This could include activities such as spending time in nature, reading, or listening to music. It is also important to practice self-compassion and to be kind to yourself. Affirmations are a powerful tool to build your self-worth.
How to Practice Mindful Communication
Mindful communication is an important skill to build and bring to the forefront of living a healthy life. It is valuable to practice being mindful of your thoughts and feelings and to communicate them respectfully and assertively. It is also necessary to be mindful of the other person’s thoughts and feelings and to be open to different perspectives while highly aware of
how a narcissist will prey on any confusion you exhibit to exploit your growing self-confidence. Please remember that communication is a two-way street and that it is important to listen to the other person as well as to express your thoughts and feelings.
Learning and practicing mindful communication is best learned in a space environment that supports you through the process. The Narc & Co mentors are specially trained at helping you regain and re-enter the world as a healthy individual.
Seeking Professional Help and Support
Seeking professional help and support can be an important step in
overcoming narcissistic abuse. A mentor, coach, therapist, or support group may provide a safe space to talk about your experiences and to gain insight into your situation and tools to recover. It can also be helpful to reach out to friends and family for support but with the awareness that many might find what you have experienced difficult to understand or accept because of their friendship with your ex-narcissistic partner.
Conclusion
Narcissistic gaslighting and discard can be devastating for the victim, but it is possible to overcome them. It is important to recognize and understand codependency, set healthy boundaries, practice self-care, and create self-esteem, practice mindful communication, and seek professional help and support. If you are struggling with narcissistic gaslighting, discard, Narc & Co's narcissistic abuse recovery mentoring service can help. Our experienced mentors can provide support and guidance as you begin to recover and reclaim your power.
This article was written by Narc & Co for your support and recovery.