When someone constantly criticizes your looks, worth, and very existence, you start believing them. Dr. Matthew McKay, psychologist and co-author of Self-Esteem, explains that repeated emotional abuse rewires your brain, making negative self-talk the default. If you’ve been told you’re ugly, worthless, or unlovable enough times, you start seeing yourself that way. When you don’t see any value in yourself, self-care stops feeling necessary. Why bother brushing your hair if you think you look awful anyway? Why shower if you feel like no one cares?
It’s not just low self-esteem; it’s self-neglect fueled by emotional wounds. But here’s the truth: you do matter, even if your mind tries to convince you otherwise. Healing starts with small acts of defiance. Look in the mirror and remind yourself that you are not what they made you believe.
6. Skin Issues
When you’re stuck in narcissistic abuse, stress takes over your body, and one of the first places it shows up is your skin. Dr. Ted Grossbart, psychologist and author of Skin Deep, explains that emotional distress weakens the immune system, making your skin more prone to acne, rashes, and even infections. Emotional exhaustion makes basic hygiene feel overwhelming, leading to breakouts and irritation. It’s not just about missing a skincare routine; it’s about your body reacting to the constant state of survival you’ve been forced into.
The worst part is that the more your skin suffers, the worse you feel. Dr. Rick Fried, a dermatologist and clinical psychologist, calls this the vicious cycle of stress. Stress leads to skin problems, which leads to more stress, which leads to even worse skin. If a narcissist has already made you feel worthless, seeing your reflection with irritated, neglected skin just adds fuel to the fire. Even something as small as splashing cold water on your face or applying moisturizer can remind you that you deserve care, no matter what you’ve been told.
7. Isolation and Social Withdrawal
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