Is Your Heart Holding You Hostage? How Trauma Bonds Keep You Tied to a Narcissist

Photo bySander SammyonUnsplash

This article was written with the help of AI.

When you're in a relationship with a narcissist, it often feels like your heart is holding you hostage. Trauma bonds form when the emotional highs and lows of the relationship create a deep, yet toxic, attachment. You might find yourself thinking, “I love them, but I know they’re hurting me.” This inner conflict can make it nearly impossible to leave.

Narcissists are masters at playing with your emotions, alternating between affection and cruelty to keep you hooked. This cycle of love and abuse strengthens the trauma bond, making it feel like you can’t live without them, even though the relationship is causing you harm.

To break free, it’s important to understand that the love you feel is rooted in manipulation. Start by emotionally detaching yourself from the narcissist and focusing on rebuilding your sense of self-worth. Therapy can help you untangle the emotional hold they have over you, allowing you to see the relationship for what it truly is—a trap.

By understanding how trauma bonds work, you can free your heart from the narcissist’s control and begin the process of healing.

Shop Amazon Books Today!