Cognitive Psycho

Dealing with a gaslighter is a unique form of psychological gymnastics that has you questioning whether you're on your way to enlightenment or simply losing your grip on reality. It’s like arguing with a mirror that somehow learned how to talk back. Just when you think you’ve reached the bottom of it, the ground shifts. Gaslighters thrive on ambiguity. They’re virtuosos in the art of the “Did I say that? No, you must have misunderstood.” It’s a world where reality is malleable – except, of course, they’re the only ones with the right to shape it. The Power of Doubt as a Tool of Control Gaslighters know that self-doubt is the ultimate handbrake on your perception. So, they sprinkle doubt like it’s fairy dust, a little here, a little there, until you're not even sure what color the sky is anymore. It’s like watching someone paint over the truth in thin layers; you almost don’t notice the color fading. Gaslighting isn’t overt bullying, no, it’s far more delicate. They’

Oh, so you’ve encountered a narcissist, have you? Well, isn’t that a grand adventure. Because nothing says “learning experience” like someone slowly unraveling your sense of self, confidence, and basic trust in humanity, all while asking why you can’t just get it together. 1. The Gaslight Tango: Your New Favorite Dance Move First rule of narcissistic abuse? Reality is optional. Narcissists thrive on twisting facts, inventing stories, and gaslighting you into believing that you’ve somehow made it all up. In fact, if they could charge you rent for living in this alternative reality, they absolutely would. But let’s be fair—who doesn’t love a good mystery, right? Sure, it’s maddening when you can’t tell if you’re “overreacting” or genuinely being deceived, but that’s just the thrill of the Gaslight Tango. A little manipulation here, a little denial there, and presto! You’re the one questioning if you even remember things correctly. 2. You’re So Sensitive! (And Other Lies) Oh, here’s a fun

So, you think a narcissist can love you. That’s adorable. Let me help you out: narcissists, by their very nature, are spectacularly incapable of experiencing love as most people understand it. Narcissism, if you’re unfamiliar, is the art of self-admiration perfected. It’s a pathological need to see oneself as the epicenter of the universe, a gravitational force to which all other beings must submit. You can’t expect someone who’s constantly preoccupied with their own grandiosity to be concerned with such trivialities as your feelings. A Narcissist's "Love" Is Actually a Mirror Narcissists don’t love people; they love reflections of themselves. If you happen to serve as a flattering mirror, fantastic—you’re in for a ride. But the moment your reflection reveals something they don’t like? Well, don’t let the door hit you on the way out. You see, love, in the healthy sense, is about understanding and accepting another person’s autonomy. Narcissists, however, need others to va

Toxic relationships are the antithesis of healthy human connection. They are marked by manipulation, deceit, and a fundamental imbalance in power. To understand what a toxic relationship looks like, we must recognize the subtle and overt dynamics at play, those patterns that erode our confidence, sense of self, and overall well-being. The first sign of a toxic relationship is control masquerading as concern. Toxic individuals frequently impose restrictions under the guise of care or love. They attempt to limit your autonomy, dictating what you wear, where you go, or who you see, all while claiming it's for your protection. This control is insidious because it often begins small. A slight comment about a friend you have or a suggestion to change an outfit can seem harmless. Over time, these "suggestions" escalate, becoming demands and ultimatums, eroding your independence. Control is deeply tied to insecurity and fear of abandonment, but it manifests in a way that traps th

Gaslighting is a form of psychological manipulation where a person or group makes someone question their own reality, memory, or perceptions.   This term comes from the 1938 play “Gas Light” and its subsequent film adaptations, where a husband manipulates his wife into believing she is going insane by dimming the gas lights and denying it when she notices 1 2 . Here are some key points about gaslighting: Manipulation Tactics : Gaslighters often use lies, denial, and contradiction to make the victim doubt their own experiences. They might say things like, “That never happened,” or “You’re imagining things.” Psychological Impact : Victims of gaslighting can experience confusion, anxiety, depression, and a loss of self-esteem. Over time, they may become dependent on the gaslighter for their sense of reality 2 3 . Contexts : Gaslighting can occur in various relationships, including romantic, familial, and professional settings. It is often seen in abusive relationships where one person see

So, you've found yourself entangled with a narcissist. Congratulations! You’ve likely learned more about emotional manipulation, gaslighting, and soul-crushing criticism than you ever wanted to. But hey, at least you’re “growing,” right? Let’s unpack the “benefits” and damages of being on the receiving end of narcissistic abuse, where every insult is a “lesson,” and your suffering is just “personal development” in disguise. 1. The Gift of Gaslighting: Trust Issues for Life First, let’s talk about gaslighting. A narcissist’s favorite tool, gaslighting ensures you doubt your own reality. It’s a fun little game where, no matter what you see or feel, you’re always wrong, and they’re always right. Oh, what a gift they’ve given you! Now, thanks to them, you’ll be questioning every single thought and memory for the foreseeable future. You can barely trust your own mind anymore, but hey, at least you’ve got that “intellectual humility” nailed down. Insight #1: Reclaim Your Reality After a