According To Studies, Anxiety May Be Caused By Narcissistic Abuse

Fear, excessive sweating, anxiety, trembling, sleeping problems and stress are common problems for millions of people around the world. Anxiety is the most common mental illness in the USA, with almost 20 million people suffering from it. The problem can be divided into social anxiety, generalized anxiety and PTSD.

According to experts, anxiety is usually caused by some foods or medications, chemical imbalance, personality disorders or just traumatic events. However, there’s one thing many people overlook that might well be the cause for most anxiety attacks – narcissistic abuse.

What is narcissistic abuse?

The term refers to the mental and physical abuse by narcissists. These people have a pretty high opinion of themselves and don’t really care about nothing else. They can appear charming at first, but they will reveal their manipulative nature later.

Narcissists usually return feelings only when it serves them, and the people who are close to them usually feel neglected, anxious and unworthy of love. Studies have found a link between domestic violence or narcissistic abuse and some mental disorders including anxiety.

Recent studies have discovered that childhood narcissistic abuse can contribute towards the development of anxiety later in life. If you experience it in your formation years, it will have negative effects on your health and mind later in life.

The bullying behavior and abuse of power can hurt a child’s feelings, which can lead to the development of anxiety, PTSD, low self-esteem and even depression. The child may also develop physical problems such as drug or alcohol abuse, aggression or delinquent behavior. In simpler terms, being abused by narcissists can make life hard for you later.

The signs of narcissistic abuse

The symptoms of narcissistic abuse are often hard to detect due to self-victimization, denial or emotional manipulation. Narcissists can easily get a hold on you, which will make you blame yourself rather than them. However, there are some signs which show narcissistic abuse if you pay more attention to them:

Blackmail

The abusers criticize you harshly when they don’t get what they expect from you, and withhold love instead of giving it unconditionally.

Manipulation and abuse

The abuser often verbally or physically bullies you, and considers himself always right.

Lying and cheating

Narcissists often lie or cheat on you, mainly to achieve something selfish. Remember, these people only care about themselves.

Exploitation and isolation

Abusers can often take advantage of your feelings and generosity and usually ignore your personal boundaries.

Neglect

Narcissistic abusers are supportive when they like it, and are not interested in your feelings.

Projection

Narcissists often try to live vicariously through you, and hate you when you don’t act like they want you to. They depend on you mentally and emotionally, and they do it so you can never leave them.

How to deal with narcissistic abuse and anxiety

Here are some tips on how to deal with narcissistic abuse and anxiety:

Seek professional help

If you’re in physical or emotional danger or you can’t deal with the situation properly, don’t hesitate to call the police, doctor or helpline. There are many shelters for victims of abuse as well. If you’re not in immediate danger, contact a psychotherapist in order to discuss the mental traumas.

Cut ties with the narcissist

The best way to avoid bigger problems is to simply cut ties with the abuser. It may not be easy, but it’s for the best.

Stay positive

You must understand that it’s not your fault, so stop blaming yourself. Just stay positive and you will work your way through the problems.

If you’re suffering from anxiety, you need to visit a doctor who will recommend the best way of treatment. Anxiety is treatable via small lifetime changes or natural remedies. Here are some tips which can help:

Reduce your alcohol and drug use

Substance abuse has been associated with the development of anxiety, so make sure to control yourself or simply stop using them.

Eat a healthy diet

Healthy foods with no sugar or artificial additives can treat and prevent anxiety. Ditching the sugar and processed foods from your diet will also help.

Meditation

Yoga stretches and breathing techniques can relax your mind and allow you to focus on the problem and resolve it.

Get proper rest overnight

Sleeping disorders have been related to anxiety, so make sure to get at least 7-8 hours of sleep overnight.

Stay physically active

Exercise for at least half an hour per day in order to get your mind off the problem and reduce anxiety.

Manage your time effectively

Following a pre-appointed schedule will help you deal with anxiety easier.

Social support

Spend more time with people who support you in your fight against anxiety and avoid using social networks during the process.

Anxiety is not a simple problem and is pretty difficult to treat, especially when the cause is narcissistic abuse. However, by recognizing the signs and getting help on time, you will be able to defeat it and lead a normal life again.

Source:healthy-holistic-living.com