• The codependent may experience intense feelings of guilt, shame, and fear after leaving the narcissist.
– It’s like when you finally quit that job you hated for years. You feel relieved but also guilty because maybe they needed you more than you thought? But don’t worry! Those emotions are completely normal and will fade with time.
• It is common for the narcissist to try to hoover the codependent back into the relationship with promises of change or threats.
– Oh yeah, they’ll promise everything under the sun just to get their supply back. Don’t fall for it! Remember all those times they let you down before?
• Codependents often struggle with setting boundaries and saying no, which can make it difficult to maintain distance from a manipulative narcissistic partner.
– Saying “no” feels like speaking in another language sometimes. But trust us – once you start doing it regularly, it becomes addicting!
• Leaving a narcissist can be an empowering step towards healing and self-discovery for codependents who have been trapped in a cycle of emotional abuse.
– Think about how much personal growth potential there is now that your focus isn’t on pleasing someone else 24/7. The world is your oyster!
• A support network of friends, family members, therapists, or support groups can be crucial for helping codependents navigate the challenges of leaving a toxic relationship.
– Surround yourself with people who uplift and encourage you during this transition period. Bonus points if they bring wine.
• Some codependents may need professional help to address underlying issues such as low self-esteem or trauma that contributed to their attraction towards abusive partners.
– No shame in seeking therapy! In fact, we highly recommend it. Sometimes talking things out with an unbiased third party makes all the difference.
• After leaving a narcissist,some codependents may feel drawn towards other unhealthy relationships unless they work on building healthier patterns and developing stronger sense of self-worth.
– Ah, the classic “I only attract jerks” syndrome. But don’t worry – once you learn to love yourself first, you’ll start attracting people who actually deserve your time and energy.
• Codependents may struggle with feelings of loneliness, isolation, and confusion after leaving a narcissist as they adjust to life without the toxic relationship.
– It’s okay if it feels weird at first! You’re breaking free from something that was familiar (albeit unhealthy). Take this opportunity to rediscover what makes YOU happy.
• It is common for codependents to experience PTSD-like symptoms such as flashbacks or nightmares after leaving a narcissistic partner.
– Your brain went through some serious trauma during that relationship. Don’t be afraid to seek help if those memories are still haunting you.
• Some codependents may also feel guilty about abandoning the narcissist and worry that they are responsible for their ex-partner’s well-being.
– Let us remind you: THEY ARE NOT YOUR RESPONSIBILITY ANYMORE. Repeat until it sinks in!
• Leaving a narcissist can be an emotionally exhausting process that requires time, patience, and self-care practices such as therapy or meditation.
– Self-care isn’t just bubble baths and face masks (although we highly recommend those too). Taking care of yourself mentally is just as important!
• The recovery journey from codependency often involves learning how to set healthy boundaries in all areas of life, not just romantic relationships.
– Boundaries aren’t meant to keep others out; they’re meant to protect our own well-being. Keep reminding yourself of that when someone tries pushing past them.
• Many codependents find it helpful to engage in activities that promote self-discovery and personal growth during the healing process.
– Try new things! Go skydiving! Learn how to knit! Join a book club! Do whatever makes you happy and helps you grow as a person.
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