Unhealthy Romantic Relationships with CPTSD

Hey, your trauma is 100% real, and explanation does NOT equal excuses nor does this make what your ex did any less bad, but as a narcissist who has been abused by another narcissist AND as someone with C-PTSD, it's best not to demonize narcissists. While, yes, some narcissists are abusers, not all are. 'Narcissistic abuse' is truly just emotional abuse. Narcissists are mentally ill as well, that's why NPD is a diagnosis. Just like you can be abused by someone without NPD, you can also have a good relationship with someone with NPD. In fact, try finding narcissists, like myself, who are self aware of it. Theyll be the first to help point out warning signs of potential narcissistic behaviour! :)

Yes I think it’s common to feel attracted to people who are like your abusers.. or just not to recognize the bad songs in people because you have been around so many hurtful people that it’s hard to tell what’s a big problem and what’s a small problem..

Very unhealthy when I first started. Ended up finding a man who really loves me and is supportive of my life. Also have gotten rid of toxic family and am getting better everyday

I just went back to (online) therapy very recently to resolve my cptsd symptoms and long-time depression. I'm seeking out support now. I hope to talk to people that have been through similar experiences. My current boyfriend of 2 months is validating towards what I went through. I do have a lot of anxiety in the current relationship- not only coming to understand the implications of the first relationship but current boyfriend is exhibiting signs of depression & is on a waiting list for a therapist.

Yeah I have had many abusive relationships. I know you said you just got out of therapy but w ould u consider returning? After a relationship like that it's important I think to have as much support as possible. I was finally able to leave my ex after a while in therapy. Then I met my now boyfriend. He is very kind and loving and supportive. But my ex is my neighbor and I won't say that I don't get pissed off sometimes seeing his stupid face.

yes, my very first relationship was traumatic, it set me up to fail in all subsequent relationships i’ve had ever since so i’ve just given up on romance altogether. i was 15-16 and he was 20. i’m 25 now and i still can’t get over it

Not an ex but my first best friend was sm like that, i was totally in love with them until i realized how toxic they were /: but yea now im in a healthy relationship. i guess we learn something from those people at least, but now i have severe social anxiety because of them 🥲