7. Hypervigilance Being around a narcissist is like being in a minefield—you never know when they’re going to explode or lash out, so you’re always on guard. This state of hypervigilance, where you’re constantly scanning for danger or trying to avoid triggering them, is incredibly draining. Your body is stuck in “fight or flight” mode, which keeps your stress hormones elevated. Over time, this takes a toll on your physical and mental health, leading to burnout. Dr. Judith Orloff, a psychiatrist and author of The Empath’s Survival Guide, explains that living in a constant state of hypervigilance is exhausting because your body never gets the chance to fully relax. This constant stress can lead to fatigue, insomnia, and a host of other health issues.
8. Isolation Narcissists often isolate their victims, cutting them off from friends, family, and anyone who might offer support. This isolation can make you feel like you have no one to turn to, which only adds to your stress and exhaustion. When you’re isolated, it’s easy to fall into the trap of thinking that you’re the problem, which can lead to feelings of depression and hopelessness. As therapist Shannon Thomas points out, isolation is a key tactic narcissists use to maintain control over their victims. Without a support system, you’re more likely to feel overwhelmed and burned out because you’re carrying the emotional weight of the relationship on your own. This sense of loneliness can deepen feelings of fatigue and make it harder to recover from burnout.
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