It's essential to consult with a mental health professional for personalized guidance and treatment. Here are some steps you can consider:
Therapy: Psychotherapy is often the primary treatment for CPTSD. Look for a therapist who specializes in trauma, CPTSD, or narcissistic abuse. Therapies such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) have shown effectiveness in treating trauma-related conditions.
Support groups: Consider joining support groups specifically focused on survivors of narcissistic abuse or CPTSD. Connecting with others who have had similar experiences can be validating and provide valuable insights.
Safety and boundaries: Ensure your physical and emotional safety by setting healthy boundaries with toxic individuals. Minimize contact or go no-contact with the abuser if possible.
Self-care: Prioritize self-care activities such as exercise, mindfulness, meditation, and engaging in hobbies or interests that bring you joy and relaxation.
Journaling: Write down your thoughts and emotions to help process your experiences and track progress over time.
Educate yourself: Learn more about CPTSD and narcissistic abuse to better understand your experiences and find strategies for coping and healing.
Reach out for support: Confide in trusted friends or family members who can offer emotional support during your recovery journey.
Seek professional help for disturbing thoughts: If disturbing thoughts are becoming overwhelming or intrusive, reach out to a mental health professional immediately to address these issues.
Avoid self-blame: Understand that CPTSD is a legitimate response to prolonged trauma, and it is not your fault. Be compassionate to yourself and practice self-compassion.
Patience and time: Healing from CPTSD is a process that takes time and effort. Be patient with yourself and acknowledge that recovery may involve ups and downs.
Remember, it's essential to work with a qualified mental health professional who can create a personalized treatment plan tailored to your specific needs. They can provide you with the appropriate tools and techniques to cope with CPTSD and disturbing thoughts and guide you towards a path of healing and growth.