Your Body on Narcissism
Why am I having health issues?
Chronic Stress, Cortisol, and Your Health
Narcissistic relationships aren’t just emotionally draining—they’re physically stressful. Chronic exposure to toxic dynamics triggers your body’s stress response repeatedly, producing cortisol. While cortisol helps in short-term danger, long-term elevations contribute to inflammation, chronic pain, immune suppression, and increased risk for conditions like diabetes, heart disease, and autoimmune disorders.
So if your health has taken a toll since entering a narcissistic relationship, you’re not making it up.
Steps to break the cycle:
Limit exposure: Reduce contact with toxic individuals whenever possible.
Activate the relaxation response: Engage in meditation, yoga, or other calming practices to regulate your nervous system.
Understanding the body-brain connection in abuse isn’t just academic—it’s a practical tool for healing. For more strategies, try The Neuroscience of Narcissistic Abuse Coping Kit — ECSNAR