Physical changes that victims of narcissistic abuse may experience over the years are clear indicators of painful emotional, mental, and physical stress that has been endured.
Understand the impact of chronic stress, sleep disturbances, weight fluctuations, physical pain, and weakened immune systems.
Have you ever had a gut feeling that things just weren’t right in your interactions with someone? Or, have you noticed that you are not the same as you used to be? That somehow, you have been slowly losing yourself and becoming unsure of anything, especially who you are as an individual?
It’s crucial to keep an eye out for changes in yourself or those around you that could be linked to narcissistic abuse. You need to notice and remind yourself to trust your instincts and look out for one another. It’s the little signs that might be telling you it’s time to take a closer look.
Narcissistic abuse is a form of emotional manipulation and control that can have profound physical effects on its victims. Over years of enduring such abuse, individuals may experience a range of physical symptoms due to the chronic stress and emotional trauma inflicted upon them.
Physical Changes in Victims of Narcissistic Abuse
Chronic Stress
- Victims of narcissistic abuse often experience chronic stress, leading to symptoms like headaches, muscle tension, fatigue, and digestive issues.
Sleep Disturbances
- The emotional turmoil caused by abuse can result in sleep disturbances, including difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, or experiencing restful sleep.
Weight Fluctuations
- Stress from narcissistic abuse can impact appetite and eating habits, potentially causing weight gain or loss in victims.
Physical Pain
- Victims may report unexplained physical pain, such as back pain, stomach aches, or chest tightness, as a manifestation of ongoing psychological distress.
Weakened Immune System
- Prolonged stress can weaken the immune system of individuals facing narcissistic abuse, making them more vulnerable to illnesses and infections.
How You Can Help
If you suspect someone is experiencing narcissistic abuse or witness concerning physical changes in someone close to you, here are some ways you can offer support:
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Listen and Validate: Show empathy and listen non-judgmentally to their experiences. Offer validation and reassurance that they are not alone.
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Encourage Professional Help: Suggest seeking support from mental health professionals who specialize in trauma and abuse recovery.
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Offer Safety: Help the individual create a safety plan to protect themselves from further harm and provide resources for emergency assistance if needed.
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Educate Yourself: Learn more about narcissistic abuse and its impact to better understand the challenges faced by victims.
Narcissistic abuse can have devastating physical effects on its victims over time. By recognizing the signs of abuse and offering support to those in need, we can help create a safer and more nurturing environment for individuals facing such challenges. Together, we can work towards healing and recovery for survivors of narcissistic abuse.
My name is Sarah i have been dealing with this for around 15 years . i now have ptsd , anxiety plus stomach and headaches tired . that my drs had my a mri thinking i have brain issues. He is now retired and is a nightmare . i work for 4 to 7 hours 4 days a week . he complains and my cooking my driving he gets me so stessed out i hit a car . she always telling me how to driving he had 4 dui . cant drive so i am it . .
Dear Sarah,
Thank you for bravely sharing your story. We’re so sorry to hear about the challenges you’ve faced for 15 years, including PTSD, anxiety, physical symptoms like headaches and fatigue, and the stress from constant criticism about your cooking and driving. It’s understandable that this pressure, especially after the car accident, feels overwhelming, and losing your doctor’s support must make it even harder. You’re showing incredible strength by managing work and these responsibilities.
We believe you don’t have to face this alone. Our Circles Journey Groups (online and in-person) offer a supportive community to explore resources, share experiences, and find tools for healing. These groups discuss books, videos, and insights from therapists and life coaches to help manage stress, anxiety, and difficult relationships. For example, you might find strategies to cope with criticism or reduce driving-related stress.
To get started, visit https://completedpeople.com and click the TOOLBOX link for free resources, including video playlists and book recommendations. You’re also welcome to join our Book Circles on Mondays at https://livingstonescenter.org/book-circles-online/. You can listen quietly as a “fly on the wall” with no pressure to participate until you’re ready.
For your physical symptoms, we encourage connecting with a new doctor or therapist to ensure you’re getting the care you need. If you’d like help finding local resources or want to share more about your situation, please reach out to us at https://livingstonescenter.org/contact/. This challenging season doesn’t have to last forever, and we’re here to support you, one step at a time. Thank you for reaching out—you’re not alone, and we care deeply about your journey.
Warmly,
Shannon, Founder LSC