Support System: Strategies for Victims of Narcissistic Abuse

Supporting a victim of narcissistic abuse involves building a strong support system. In the workplace, this can offer many benefits for both the affected individual and the employer. In this article, we look at the importance of developing key strategies for supporting victims of narcissistic abuse. 

Educate employees and managers

By educating employees and managers on how to recognise narcissistic behaviours, we can start to develop suitable strategies. It’s crucial that organisations understand that narcissistic abuse can be subtle and psychological, rather than physical. You may have colleagues trapped in an abusive cycle who feel they have no way out. By understanding the typical signs and patterns associated with narcissism you can educate your workforce.

Create a safe workplace culture

One of the main problems with supporting victims of narcissism is the fact that people feel powerless. In some cases, you may have colleagues who are struggling to escape from a narcissistic relationship. Look at ways to improve your workplace culture to ensure affected employees feel safe and understood in the workplace. Start learning how to provide a safe and empathetic environment by using our free resources. 

Promote self-care

When someone has been the victim of narcissistic abuse, they are likely to struggle with self-care. Over time, their self-esteem and confidence will have been eroded, so the idea of self-care can pose a big challenge. It’s important to recognise that an affected colleague may also have had their sense of normal destroyed. Promote empowering wellness opportunities within your workplace, alongside practical support to help recovering victims.

Build a support network

Support means different things to different people. Therefore, it’s important to offer the right type of support to victims of narcissistic abuse. Also, the level of support required is likely to change over time. When managers take on the role of the supporter, they will need to understand how to support a victim of narcissistic abuse. It’s critical to know the type of help that is needed at that time and what isn’t needed: providing the wrong support will only make matters worse. 

Promote awareness and advocacy

One of the main aims of the Narcissistic Abuse Network (N.A.N) is to raise awareness of the impact these behaviours have on victims. As an organisation, you could consider raising awareness of narcissistic abuse and offering advocacy services to those affected.

If you need suitable resources to help you deliver awareness campaigns, we provide a range of information in different formats. Our training methods include workshops, educational talks and public speaking at events.

Our workshops focus on five key topics, starting with understanding ‘Narcissists and Narcissism’ and going through to learning ‘All About Supporters and Their Role’. Limited to 20 attendees, these courses can be run onsite at your premises (learning materials provided). 

For more information, see our handbook and training aid, Escaping The Void (How to Support Victims Out of Emotionally Abusive Relationships).

Please contact us for information on strategies to support a victim of narcissistic abuse.

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You will also find the following links helpful for understanding narcissism and its impacts on our lives.

SAFETY ONLINE

How to Protect Our Online Activity When Living in an Abusive Relationship

TERMS AND DESCRIPTIONS USED WHEN TALKING ABOUT NARCISSISM

Terminology and Definitions Used When Talking About Narcissism

IDENTIFYING NARCISSISTS

How to Identify The Different Types of Narcissist

How to Spot Narcissists and Narcissism

Quick Quiz: Find Out if You Are Affected by Narcissists or Narcissism

DIVORCING A NARCISSIST

Divorcing a Narcissist - What You Should Know About the Legal System and the Courts