Healing PTSD from Abusive Relationships: Recovery for Mental & Narcissistic Abuse
PTSD doesn’t only arise from traditionally recognized traumatic events like war, natural disasters, or assault. While these are well-studied, PTSD from abusive relationships is a real and significant form of trauma. In this blog, we’ll explore how mental and narcissistic abuse can trap you in a cycle of negativity—and more importantly, how you can begin to heal from that trauma.
Understanding PTSD from Abusive Relationships
You may be in denial about being in an abusive relationship, but remember: abuse isn’t always physical. Cycles of manipulation, gaslighting, victim-blaming, and control are more than just toxic behaviors—they’re forms of abuse when used intentionally and repeatedly.
PTSD from relationship abuse often emerges after leaving the relationship, manifesting as heightened paranoia, self-doubt, or an inability to trust others. This trauma can damage not only your mental and emotional state but also future relationships, repeating negative cycles.
Can You Get PTSD from Mental Abuse?
Yes, you can get PTSD from mental abuse. Mental or psychological abuse—defined by the APA as behaviors that inflict emotional harm—can lead to anxiety, depression, and PTSD from mental abuse. Although it leaves no visible marks, the emotional scars can be just as profound and long-lasting.
PTSD from Narcissistic Abuse
PTSD from narcissistic abuse can have a profound psychological effect, often leading to complex PTSD. Complex PTSD occurs when someone experiences layers of emotional trauma beyond traditional PTSD symptoms.
A person with Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD) often requires external validation to mask deep-seated insecurity, usually from childhood trauma. The manipulation cycle—love bombing, devaluing, discarding, and hoovering—can leave victims trapped in confusion and self-blame. Those who fall victim to narcissistic abuse often make excuses for the abuser’s behavior, reinforcing the trauma.
For more information on narcissistic abuse and complex PTSD, click here.
Symptoms & Signs of PTSD From Abusive Relationships
Common symptoms of PTSD from abusive relationships include:
Anxiety
Recurrent flashbacks
Avoidance of triggers
Nightmares
Memory issues
Difficulty making decisions
If the abuse was prolonged or particularly manipulative, you may also experience symptoms of complex PTSD from abusive relationships:
Difficulty controlling emotions
Feelings of emptiness or hopelessness
Negative beliefs about yourself
Dissociation (feeling disconnected from reality)
Physical symptoms like headaches or stomach pains
Suicidal thoughts
Victims of narcissistic or mental abuse are especially prone to these complex symptoms, as the trauma tends to be more insidious and long-lasting.
Healing & Recovery From PTSD
Awareness is the first step to recovery. Whether it’s through therapy, meditation, or working on your physical health and strength, taking that first step is crucial. Getting stronger physically naturally promotes healing and growth in your mind through neuroplasticity – the brain’s ability to heal itself. A personal trainer will provide you the guidance and confidence that you need to make breakthroughs physically and mentally.
Explore Your First Steps to Healing Here:
Meditation techniques
Links to CBD supplements
Links to self-help books
Links to teletherapy and therapy providers
Links to support groups
Discover Minority Specific Resources Here:
Asian/Pacific Islander, Black, Latino..etc.
How Drip Training Can Help
Having a coach is an investment in your future. The right one will guide you to your goals with the grace and structure you need to thrive. At Drip Training, we tailor our approach to meet your unique goals, blending science-based techniques to build both your physical and mental resilience. Our approach includes strength and conditioning, breath training, and strengthening your mind-body connection. As we build your strength capacity and ability to breath under load, we automatically train your body’s stress response to stay calm under the pressures of life. Ready to transform your body and mind? Let’s get started now!
Conclusion
Healing from PTSD caused by abusive relationships is a challenging but necessary journey. Recognizing the signs, seeking help, and building both physical and mental resilience are key to recovery. At Drip Training, we believe in healing through movement and strength. By empowering yourself physically, you’ll gain the mental clarity and resilience needed to overcome the trauma of the past.
Start your coaching from someone who’s lived through PTSD and has now overcome.
Train Smarter with a Virtual Coach
If you’re tired of generic workout programs that don’t account for your body’s unique needs, it’s time to train smarter. My virtual personal training services will help you:
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COACH DEE
Online Personal Trainer CPT: ACE & Trauma Informed Weight-lifting
About the Author: Coach Dee
Deborah Park, known as Coach Dee, is the owner of Drip Training LLC and an ACE Certified Personal Trainer and Health Coach. With a background in architecture and kinesiology from the University of Virginia, she has extensive experience in personal training and athletic coaching in a clinical (physical therapy) setting. Coach Dee combines her scientific knowledge with years of hands-on experience and generational knowledge of food as medicine to create programs that empower clients to regain control over their bodies and minds.
Her journey into personal training was deeply influenced by her personal struggles, including recovering from a life-changing car accident that led to PTSD and pain from scoliosis. This experience gave her a unique understanding of the connection between mental health and physical well-being. Coach Dee is committed to helping clients develop resilience, build strength, and rediscover their confidence—no matter the challenges they face.
