10 Ways to Recover From Narcissistic Abuse as a Catholic
Recovering from narcissistic abuse can be a challenging journey, especially when you are a Catholic seeking healing and restoration. In this blog post, we will explore ten ways to recover from narcissistic abuse as a Catholic, emphasizing the importance of faith and spiritual practices in the healing process. While these methods are presented in no particular order, each one offers valuable insights and support for those seeking to overcome the effects of narcissistic abuse.
1) Seek the Sacraments! Especially Confession & The Eucharist
The Catholic Church offers some of the most beautiful and healing sacraments, which are spiritual medicines from God. Among these are the Eucharist and the sacrament of confession. Now, you might be thinking, "Confession? But I'm the victim of narcissistic abuse! I have nothing to confess; I am innocent!" However, have you ever considered how harbouring hatred in our hearts can hinder our healing process and journey? Yes, inappropriate and abusive things occurred to you. However, confession offers us the opportunity to restore the bond between us and Christ and to bask in His perfect love.
Confession is a sacrament that allows you to seek forgiveness and receive God's grace. Sharing your experiences of narcissistic abuse with a priest can bring relief and healing. Through the sacrament of confession, you can unburden yourself and find guidance on the path to recovery.
Confession provides the opportunity to forgive your abuser and free yourself from the emotional confusion and enslavement they may have caused. Forgiving an abuser requires an immense amount of grace, which can only come from our spiritual Father. Regularly attending confession (once a month or more frequently at the beginning) will immensely help in your recovery process because we want to conform our hearts to Jesus and allow His love to deeply console and transform our hearts. It is through God's love that we will be able to heal, forgive, and even pray for our abuser! There will actually be meaning to our suffering because it will unite us closer to God and He will hold us so tenderly during these moments.
In the aftermath of abuse, we often find ourselves feeling weak, vulnerable, and fractured. In such times, we yearn for God's perfect love to dwell within us, mending our brokenness and restoring us to wholeness. This is where the one-two punch of confession and receiving the eucharist is incredible! Through the Eucharist, Jesus enters into our lives, and His very presence brings healing. Just as food and drink sustain our bodies, the real presence of Jesus nourishes our spirits. It is an experience of receiving pure love directly into our hearts.
The Eucharist holds profound significance within the Catholic faith, serving as a potent sacrament of healing and spiritual renewal. Partaking in Holy Communion offers solace and strength, particularly during times of recovery from trauma. By receiving the Body and Blood of Christ, individuals discover a deep source of comfort and nourishment for their souls, allowing the transformative power of Christ to permeate their beings.
2) Inner Prayer Healing
When you have been deeply hurt, it can wreak havoc on your emotions and interior life. Inner healing refers to the process of addressing and healing the lingering effects of trauma and sin within us. Ministries focused on inner healing, such as Encounter Ministries (https://encounterministries.us/inner-healing-freedom-2/), offer a supportive environment where individuals can safely explore and process their emotions and experiences. These ministries integrate prayer, counseling, and spiritual guidance to facilitate healing from the wounds inflicted by narcissistic abuse. Ultimately, it is Jesus who brings about healing. For further insight into inner healing, you can watch a compelling video by Fr. Edattu, where he briefly discusses this topic: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NV6MN8hUzeg&t=17s
3) Read Scripture Daily
To counter manipulation and gaslighting, one powerful approach is to seek and embrace the truth. And what better way to do so than by delving into Scripture – God's profound narrative of love for humanity! For Catholics, the Bible serves as an invaluable source of wisdom, comfort, and guidance. Daily engagement with Scripture offers solace and a deeper comprehension of God's unwavering love and purpose for your life. Delve into passages that resonate with your experiences, and allow the Word of God to permeate your being, bringing healing and renewal to your heart. The Psalms, Gospels, and Proverbs, in particular, can profoundly enrich your journey, providing abundant love and comfort.
4) Therapy
Engaging in therapy with a compassionate and understanding therapist can play a vital role in your healing journey. Trauma has a profound impact on our nervous systems and brains, often leaving us in a constant state of fight, flight, freeze, or fawn. It's crucial to address and heal these neurological responses. Therapy, such as Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), offers a valuable tool for those recovering from narcissistic abuse. EMDR is an evidence-based therapeutic approach designed to help individuals process traumatic experiences and rewire negative thought patterns. When seeking therapy, prioritize finding a therapist who respects and integrates your Catholic faith into their practice, ensuring a holistic approach to healing.
5) Exercise
Get moving! Engaging in regular physical exercise can have a positive impact on your mental and emotional well-being. Exercise releases endorphins, reduces stress, and improves overall mood. Consider incorporating activities like walking, jogging, yoga, or any form of exercise that brings you joy into your daily routine.
6) Theology of the Body
The Theology of the Body, as taught by Saint John Paul II, offers profound insights into the human person, relationships, and sexuality. Exploring this teaching can help you understand your worth and dignity as a child of God, counteracting the negative beliefs and self-image that may have resulted from narcissistic abuse.
7) Spiritual Direction
Seeking spiritual direction from a trusted priest or spiritual advisor can provide guidance and support as you navigate the recovery process. A spiritual director can help you discern God's will, deepen your prayer life, and offer insights from a Catholic perspective.
8) Journeying & Connecting with Others
Feeling isolated after narcissistic abuse is super common. We're scared to trust anyone and it just seems easier to keep to ourselves because opening up feels like too much to handle. But here's the thing – that's exactly what Satan wants us to believe! He wants us to think our problems are too big for God and that we're better off alone. But guess what? That's a big fat lie! So, instead of buying into that nonsense, why not reach out and connect with supportive folks in your Catholic community? Whether you've never set foot in a church or you're not Catholic, don't sweat it – they'll welcome you with open arms! And hey, that's why we started Catholic Narc Recovery – to give you a place where you can link up with others who get what you're going through. So come join us today! Connect with people who share your faith and values, and who can create a safe and supportive space for you to heal and thrive.
9) Abstaining from Romantic Relationships
Indeed, this might be a challenging concept to embrace, but after enduring narcissistic abuse, it's vital to prioritize your healing and self-esteem rebuilding process before venturing into new romantic relationships. Why is this so important? Well, because there's a significant risk of falling back into familiar patterns and unhealthy bonds if we rush into new relationships without properly addressing past traumas. Thankfully, Jesus is eager to heal and restore you. Take the time to explore your true value and worth through the teachings of Theology of the Body. Shift your focus towards self-care, personal development, and deepening your connection with God. Grant yourself the necessary space and time to undergo complete healing before considering new romantic connections. God can use this time to transform your life for the better!
10) Surrendering & Trusting God
Trusting and surrendering to God in times of suffering means having faith that, even amidst pain, God is present, loving, and working for our ultimate good. It involves leaning on His promises, character, and sovereignty, even when circumstances feel overwhelming or beyond comprehension. Surrendering to God doesn't necessarily mean fully understanding the reasons for our suffering, but rather entrusting our fears and doubts to Him, acknowledging His wisdom and goodness. It's recognizing that God can bring beauty from our darkest moments, and that His plans transcend our immediate circumstances. Ultimately, trusting and surrendering to God in suffering brings hope, strength, and peace as we rest in His presence, knowing that He journeys with us through every trial, and that He will transform our suffering into something beautiful in His time. Check out the best prayer for surrendering here.
Conclusion
Recovering from narcissistic abuse as a Catholic is a journey that requires patience, perseverance, and faith. Gaslighting and an anxious nervous system can be reversed by learning the truth and embracing the message of Jesus Christ. Understanding that your worth and identity are rooted in Him can help you regain confidence and overcome the effects of gaslighting. Seek the truth through prayer, scripture, and the teachings of the Catholic Church, allowing the healing power of Christ to transform your mind and heart.
