Yes, it is entirely normal to experience a wide range of intense emotions and feel mentally distressed after a narcissist discards you. Narcissistic discards can be particularly traumatic and leave long-lasting emotional scars. Here are some common psychological and emotional responses individuals may experience after a narcissist discards them:
Depression: Feeling deeply sad, hopeless, and experiencing a loss of interest in things you once enjoyed can be common after a discard.
Anxiety: Anxiety levels may increase due to the uncertainty, fear, and emotional turmoil experienced during and after the relationship with the narcissist.
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): In severe cases, the emotional trauma of being in a relationship with a narcissist can lead to symptoms of PTSD, such as flashbacks, nightmares, and hypervigilance.
Low Self-Esteem: Narcissists often undermine their victims' self-esteem through emotional manipulation, leading to feelings of worthlessness and self-doubt.
Guilt and Self-Blame: Victims of narcissistic abuse may unfairly blame themselves for the failed relationship or believe they could have done something differently to prevent the discard.
Isolation: The narcissist may have isolated you from friends and family during the relationship, leaving you feeling alone and disconnected after the discard.
Distrust: After experiencing the deception and manipulation of a narcissist, you may find it difficult to trust others and form new relationships.
Cognitive Dissonance: Conflicting emotions and thoughts about the narcissist and the relationship can lead to cognitive dissonance, causing further distress.
Emotional Rollercoaster: The discard often involves a cycle of idealization and devaluation, leaving you emotionally confused and unstable.
Sense of Loss: Even if the relationship was toxic, there can be a sense of loss and grief after the discard, especially if you had invested a lot of time and effort in the relationship.
If you are experiencing these symptoms or any other mental health concerns following a narcissist's discard, it's crucial to seek support. Consider reaching out to a mental health professional or therapist who specializes in trauma and narcissistic abuse. They can provide validation, guidance, and tools to help you cope, heal, and regain control of your life. Remember that healing from narcissistic abuse takes time, but with the right support, it is possible to recover and build a healthier, happier future.