Being codependent could be the reason why you are struggling to heal abuse. Narcissists use "love bombing" tactics to make their codependent partners feel worthy and exploit your lack of self-worth.

When a narcissist's abusive behaviours (e.g., shouting, silent treatment) trigger your codependent's core wound of not feeling good enough, it can lead to chronic illness due to the body's stress response.

The key to escaping this narcissistic trap is to recognise your own self worth and break the codependent cycle through corrective experiences. This will help you avoid toxic relationships, cultivating self-acceptance, and not seeking external validation to feel worthy.

Key topics covered in this episode:

• How narcissists use "love bombing" tactics at the start of a relationship

• What codependency looks like for you as a parent or partner

• Why codependency makes you vulnerable to narcissists

• What to do to heal your core wounds

• How to break the cycle of codependency

Podcast Resources:

• Join my FREE Facebook group at https://www.facebook.com/groups/thriveafternarcissisticabuse

• Access my low cost Narcissistic Trauma Recovery Programme https://go.carolinestrawson.com/heal-the-trauma-of-narcissistic-abuse

• Connect with me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carolinestrawson/

• Find me on TikTok!: https://www.tiktok.com/@carolinestrawson

• My website: https://www.carolinestrawson.com/

Content Warning: This episode contains discussions of suicide and suicidal ideation.

If someone you know is struggling emotionally or having a hard time, you can be the difference in getting them the help they need. It’s important to take care of yourself when you are supporting someone through a difficult time. If you or a loved one is struggling or in crisis, call or text 988 for support.

Today I sit down with award-winning Positive Psychologist, Keynote Speaker, Business Mentor, and author Niyc Pidgeon to discuss her new book "One More Day." Niyc shares her personal experiences with suicide, including a childhood suicide attempt and the loss of three close friends to suicide in her 20s.

Niyc and I delve into the impact of social media and online bullying on suicide rates, particularly among young people. We emphasise the importance of fostering genuine connections and support systems, as well as the role of practical, easy-to-implement tools in building resilience and hope.

She encourages listeners to take small steps, reach out to trusted confidants, and use the resources and strategies outlined in her book to support their own mental health and that of their loved ones.

Key topics covered in this episode:

• Niyc's personal experiences with suicide and the concept of "positive suicidology"
• The impact of social media and online bullying on suicide rates
• The importance of connection, support, and practical tools for building resilience
• Niyc's vision for a future where suicide is no longer a prevalent issue
• Practical steps listeners can take to support their own and others' mental health

Resources:

• Join my FREE Facebook group at https://www.facebook.com/groups/thriveafternarcissisticabuse
• Access my low cost Narcissistic Trauma Recovery Programme https://go.carolinestrawson.com/heal-the-trauma-of-narcissistic-abuse
• Connect with me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carolinestrawson/
• Find me on TikTok!: https://www.tiktok.com/@carolinestrawson
• My website: https://www.carolinestrawson.com/

Order my NEW book here: https://carolinestrawson.showit.site/book

In this episode, I share a deep conversation I had with my children while on holiday, discussing how to navigate online bullies and trolls, especially in the wake of my recent media appearances discussing narcissistic abuse. I talk about the overwhelmingly positive response I received after being featured on the popular UK daytime TV show This Morning, where I was finally able to bring the topic of narcissistic abuse into the mainstream.

I reflect on the importance of being a positive role model for our children, particularly when it comes to navigating the challenges of social media and online bullying. Remember that your worth is not defined by your appearance or any other external factors, and that we must stay strong in our mission to shine a light on the realities of narcissistic abuse.

Key topics covered in this episode:

• Navigating online bullies and trolls
• Bringing narcissistic abuse into the mainstream media
• Dealing with misogynistic and abusive comments
• The importance of self-worth and not letting negativity define us

Resources:

• Join my FREE Facebook group at https://www.facebook.com/groups/thriveafternarcissisticabuse
• Access my low cost Narcissistic Trauma Recovery Programme https://go.carolinestrawson.com/heal-the-trauma-of-narcissistic-abuse
• Connect with me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carolinestrawson/
• Find me on TikTok!: https://www.tiktok.com/@carolinestrawson
• My website: https://www.carolinestrawson.com/

Join my FREE masterclass on How To Parent With A Narcissist: https://carolinestrawson.com/parenting-masterclass

Order my NEW book here: https://carolinestrawson.showit.site/book

On today's episode of Trauma and Narcissism Redefined, I'm discussing the difficulties of parenting alongside a narcissist - even after separation. Narcissists will often try to use your children against you, whether that be through forcing you to rely on them financially, influencing their opinion of you directly, or using the court system against you in the case of divorce.

In fact when you go through a divorce with a narcissist the abuse doesn't stop, it often escalates. This is known as post-separation abuse, and only through understanding their methods and healing yourself can you break out of the cycle.

Key topics covered in this episode:

• The impact of narcissistic abuse on parenting and self-worth
• Strategies for setting boundaries through parallel parenting
• Techniques for managing your emotions and nervous system
• The difference between changing the situation and managing your internal response

Join me for my free How To Parent With A Narcissist masterclass, live on Sunday 15th September. In it I'll be covering key strategies like parallel parenting, nervous system regulation, and the importance of putting your own oxygen mask on first before supporting your children. Sign up even if you can't attend live as I'll be sending out the recording afterwards

Resources:

• Join my FREE Facebook group at https://www.facebook.com/groups/thriveafternarcissisticabuse
• Access my low cost Narcissistic Trauma Recovery Programme https://go.carolinestrawson.com/heal-the-trauma-of-narcissistic-abuse
• Connect with me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carolinestrawson/
• Find me on TikTok!: https://www.tiktok.com/@carolinestrawson
• My website: https://www.carolinestrawson.com/

Join the waitlist for my Narcissistic Trauma Informed Coaching Certification: https://carolinestrawson.com/ntic-waitlist

Order my NEW book here: https://carolinestrawson.showit.site/book

I've dedicated my life to understanding and overcoming the devastating effects of narcissistic abuse. In this episode, I take you on a deeply personal journey, sharing how my own harrowing experience with a narcissistic ex-husband opened my eyes to the insidious nature of this form of domestic abuse.

When I was trapped in that toxic relationship, I thought my ex was simply a "cheat" - but as I delved deeper, I realised the betrayal ran far deeper. The silent treatment he used as a tool of manipulation and control was just one of the many ways he systematically eroded my self-worth and sense of self. By understanding the complexities of behaviours like silent treatment and cheating, we can begin to break free from the cycle of abuse and reclaim our power.

Key topics covered in this episode:

• The insidious nature of silent treatment as a tool of narcissistic abuse
• The impact of narcissistic abuse on one's sense of self-worth and how to heal from it
• The complexities of cheating and its role in narcissistic relationships
• Distinguishing between healthy and abusive silence

Resources:

• Join my FREE Facebook group at https://www.facebook.com/groups/thriveafternarcissisticabuse
• Access my low cost Narcissistic Trauma Recovery Programme https://go.carolinestrawson.com/heal-the-trauma-of-narcissistic-abuse
• Connect with me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carolinestrawson/
• Find me on TikTok!: https://www.tiktok.com/@carolinestrawson
• My website: https://www.carolinestrawson.com/

Join the waitlist for my Narcissistic Trauma Informed Coaching Certification: https://carolinestrawson.com/ntic-waitlist

Order my NEW book here: https://carolinestrawson.showit.site/book

In this episode, I explore the importance of addressing trauma and narcissistic abuse not just through traditional talk therapy, but also through somatic and nervous system-based approaches. I am passionate about advocating for a "top-down and bottom-up" approach that combines cognitive processing with healing the body and nervous system.

I share my own journey of discovering these somatic modalities and my frustration at being dismissed by the mainstream mental health system for not having a psychology degree, despite my extensive training and success in helping people heal. I am on a mission to bring more awareness to the need for integrating somatic practices into trauma and abuse recovery.

In this episode, we will explore:

• Why you can’t JUST talk about trauma and narcissistic abuse
• The importance of also feeling, processing, and healing the nervous system
• My personal experience with traditional talk therapy providing leading me to believe you can’t heal through talking alone
• My discovery of somatic modalities like EMDR, brain spotting, and breathwork to address the nervous system and body

Resources:

• Join my FREE Facebook group at https://www.facebook.com/groups/thriveafternarcissisticabuse
• Access my low cost Narcissistic Trauma Recovery Programme https://go.carolinestrawson.com/heal-the-trauma-of-narcissistic-abuse
• Connect with me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carolinestrawson/
• Find me on TikTok!: https://www.tiktok.com/@carolinestrawson
• My website: https://www.carolinestrawson.com/

Order my NEW book here: https://carolinestrawson.showit.site/book

In this episode, I explore the concept of reactive abuse - how narcissists can provoke their partners to react in ways that make the partner appear to be the abuser, when in fact they are the victim of the narcissist's manipulation.

I also discuss the feeling of not recognising oneself due to the changes in behaviour brought about by being in a relationship with a narcissist. I explain the dynamics of reactive abuse and provide guidance on how to navigate this challenging situation safely.

In this episode, we will explore:

• Understanding Reactive Abuse: What it is and how narcissists use it to manipulate their partners
• Navigating Safety and Exit Strategies: Prioritising safety when leaving a relationship with a narcissist
• Managing Emotional Reactions: Techniques for regulating the nervous system to avoid being provoked

Resources:

• Join my FREE Facebook group at https://www.facebook.com/groups/thriveafternarcissisticabuse
• Access my low cost Narcissistic Trauma Recovery Programme https://go.carolinestrawson.com/heal-the-trauma-of-narcissistic-abuse
• Connect with me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carolinestrawson/
• Find me on TikTok!: https://www.tiktok.com/@carolinestrawson
• My website: https://www.carolinestrawson.com/

Order my NEW book here: https://carolinestrawson.showit.site/book

Are you aware of the hidden relationship between ADHD and Trauma? Today I delve into ADHD and trauma, exploring how these two conditions often overlap and influence each other. By understanding this crossover, we can better support those affected by both ADHD and trauma.

ADHD and trauma can create a complex interplay of symptoms and challenges, often making it difficult for individuals to navigate daily life. By shedding light on how these conditions intersect, we aim to provide valuable insights and practical advice for those seeking to understand and manage their experiences better.

In this episode, we will explore:

• The connection between ADHD and trauma and how they can coexist
• How trauma can impact ADHD symptoms and vice versa.
• The importance of proper diagnosis and tailored treatment plans.
• Effective strategies and therapies for managing symptoms and improving quality of life.

Resources:

• Join my FREE Facebook group at https://www.facebook.com/groups/thriveafternarcissisticabuse
• Access my low cost Narcissistic Trauma Recovery Programme https://go.carolinestrawson.com/heal-the-trauma-of-narcissistic-abuse
• Connect with me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carolinestrawson/
• Find me on TikTok!: https://www.tiktok.com/@carolinestrawson
• My website: https://www.carolinestrawson.com/