• Set clear boundaries and stick to them: This means that you should establish what is acceptable behavior from your narcissistic parent, and make it known. Then, hold them accountable when they inevitably cross the line. And don’t worry if you feel like a broken record because with narcissists, repetition is key!
• Seek support from friends, family members or a therapist who understands narcissistic abuse: When dealing with a narcissist parent, you need all the help you can get! Find people who understand what you’re going through and lean on them when things get tough. Just remember not to take advantage of their kindness by talking about nothing but yourself.
• Cut off contact if necessary for personal safety and mental health reasons: Sometimes leaving completely may be the best option for your well-being. It’s okay to put yourself first in this situation – after all, no one else will!
• Be prepared for backlash, guilt-tripping and manipulation tactics from the narcissistic parent when leaving: Narcissists are masters at emotional blackmail so expect some resistance during this process. But stay strong; it’ll be worth it in the end.
• Practice self-care regularly to cope with the emotional toll of leaving a narcissistic parent behind: Treat yo’ self! Take bubble baths, eat ice cream straight outta tubs (no judgement here!), watch reality TV shows…whatever helps soothe your soul as long as it isn’t illegal or harmful.
• Understand that it is not your responsibility to fix or change the behavior of a narcissistic parent: You cannot control other people’s actions only how we react towards those actions. So focus on changing yourself instead —this includes learning how to set healthy boundaries.
• Create distance by limiting communication frequency and avoiding topics that trigger their abusive behavior: Distance makes less crazy-making interactions between children of narcs & narcs themselves. Try communicating via email rather than phone calls since there would be written evidence of the conversation in case they try to gaslight you.
• Consider legal options such as obtaining restraining orders or filing for custody in cases involving minors: If things get too out of hand, don’t be afraid to call a lawyer. It’s better safe than sorry!
• Keep records of any abusive incidents including dates, times, locations and witnesses present which can be used as evidence if needed later on: This is important because it helps establish patterns of abuse that are difficult to refute when presented with hard facts.
• Develop a plan for financial independence and stability before leaving especially if the narcissistic parent controls finances: Make sure you have enough money saved up so that you’re not dependent on your parents’ support after leaving their household (if possible).
• Avoid engaging in arguments or trying to reason with a narcissistic parent as it often leads to more abuse: Trying to argue with them will only lead down an endless rabbit hole filled with manipulation tactics designed specifically by them just so they could win against you -so save yourself from this misery and avoid it at all costs!
• Seek professional help from a therapist who specializes in treating survivors of narcissistic abuse during and after leaving: A good therapist can provide invaluable guidance & emotional support throughout this process. Remember though- therapy isn’t cheap but neither is staying stuck.
• Recognize that healing takes time and may involve grieving the loss of the idealized image of the parent you wanted them to be: The road ahead might seem daunting but remember – Rome wasn’t built-in-a-day! Take one day at a time, grieve what needs grieving over then move forward towards building new healthy relationships
• Practice assertiveness skills when communicating with the narcissistic parent about your decision to leave but do not expect them to understand or respect your boundaries : Assertive communication means standing up for yourself without being aggressive towards others. Just keep reminding yourself that no matter how much explaining we give narcs, they will never understand or respect our boundaries.
• Create a support system by joining online communities or attending support groups for adult children of narcissists: It’s always good to know that you’re not alone in this situation. Joining an online community can provide you with the emotional support and guidance needed during these tough times.
• Be prepared for potential smear campaigns launched by the narcissist against you after leaving: Remember when I said Narcissists are masters at emotional blackmail? Well, expect nothing less from them even after leaving their household! They might try to ruin your reputation so be ready!
• Trust yourself and your instincts; don’t let guilt or self-doubt prevent you from taking steps towards leaving: You know what’s best for YOU better than anyone else does -so trust yourself & take action accordingly without letting doubts cloud your judgement!