Surviving Psychological Warfare: Countermeasures in Abusive Relationships
It's not that you did bad things. It's that you were in a bad environment with a bad person and they were doing bad things to you and you had to do something to stay sane.
Ever wondered why you acted a certain way in an abusive relationship? Mandy Friedman, a seasoned counselor and survivor herself, unpacks the complex tactics used in these toxic environments. In this eye-opening episode of 'SNAP: Survivors of Narcissistic & Abusive Personalities', Mandy dives into the concept of countermeasures – the actions survivors take to maintain their sanity amidst chaos. She explains that these behaviors are not signs of weakness but necessary responses to psychological warfare.
Mandy also touches on trauma bonding, a phenomenon that can make it incredibly hard to break free from an abuser. This addictive cycle often leaves survivors feeling trapped and confused about their own actions. By understanding the nature of trauma bonding, listeners can start to see their past behaviors in a new light. The episode is a call to action for self-forgiveness. Mandy reminds survivors that they did what they had to do to survive in a hostile environment.
She offers practical advice on how to move forward and reclaim your life. If you've ever felt ashamed or guilty about your past actions in an abusive relationship, this episode is a must-listen. It's packed with empathy, practical tips, and a deep understanding of the emotional toll these relationships take. Tune in to gain a fresh perspective on your journey to healing and learn how to protect your empathic nature from future harm.
Whether you're a survivor or know someone who is, Mandy's insights offer valuable guidance for anyone navigating the aftermath of abuse.