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HOW TO IDENTIFY NARCISSISTIC ABUSE AT HOME
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Every marriage has its ups and downs. But if you constantly feel like you’re walking on eggshells, second-guessing yourself, or giving way more than you’re getting, it may be time to ask a harder question: Am I married to a narcissist? We’re not talking about someone who simply takes a few too many selfies. Narcissism, especially in the context of a relationship, goes much deeper. Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD) is a clinical diagnosis, but many people can have narcissistic traits without a true diagnosis, and those traits can be emotionally draining and damaging in a marriage. YOU MAY BE MARRIED TO A NARCISSIST — HERE ARE THE SIGNS. • Everything revolves around them. They dominate conversations, dismiss your opinions, and show little genuine interest in your needs or feelings. • They lack empathy. Your emotions are minimized, ignored, or even used against you. • They manipulate and gaslight. You’re made to feel like you’re the problem, even when they’re clearly in the wrong. • They need constant admiration. If you’re not praising them, they feel slighted. • They blame others for their mistakes. They rarely apologize and often twist the truth to avoid accountability. WHAT CAN YOU DO? • Educate yourself. Understanding narcissistic behavior helps you recognize patterns and protect your emotional health. Once you see it clearly, you can stop blaming yourself for their behavior. • Set boundaries. Start small but be firm. Say no when you mean no, and don’t let guilt override your gut instincts. Narcissists often push limits, so boundaries are essential. • Don’t try to ‘fix’ them. Meaningful change typically requires professional therapy — and they have to want to change. But many won’t. • Seek support. See a therapist, find a support group, or confide in a friend. You need a safe space to process your experience and make a plan for your future. • Consider your long-term well-being. If the relationship is toxic and does not change, it’s okay to prioritize your mental health. Whether that means staying with firm boundaries or preparing to leave, know that you deserve respect, love, and emotional safety.
Sherbet
Trampoline
Inspired by OMGChocolateDesserts.com
Chocolate-Covered Banana Brownies
INGREDIENTS Banana Brownies •
Chocolate Topping •
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted 1/3 cup light brown sugar
12 oz semi-sweet baking chocolate, chopped
• • • • • • •
• •
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup sugar
3/4 cup creamy peanut butter
1/4 tsp salt 1 large egg
•
3–4 large bananas
1 1/2 tsp vanilla
1/2 cup mashed banana
1 cup flour
DIRECTIONS
1. Preheat oven to 350 F. Grease an 8x8-inch pan with cooking spray. 2. In a bowl, whisk together melted butter, brown sugar, sugar, and salt. Add egg and vanilla and whisk. Add mashed banana and whisk, then whisk in flour. 3. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 25 minutes, or until the center has set. 4. Place chopped chocolate in a heatproof bowl. 5. Bring heavy cream to a boil, pour over chocolate, let it sit for 1–2 minutes, then stir until chocolate is completely melted. Stir in peanut butter until smooth. 6. Slice bananas and arrange over cooled brownies. 7. Pour chocolate mixture over bananas and place in the fridge for 15 minutes before serving.
Remember, you’re not alone, and you’re not crazy. Trust your instincts — they’re trying to protect you.
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