Loving Those Who Hurt YouLoving Those Who Hurt You
Resilient Truths
CONTENT DISCLAIMER The views and opinions expressed in the media or comments on this channel are those of Dr. Bell and do not necessarily reflect or represent the views and opinions held by this channel's broadcaster. This broadcaster was educated at thr...
59:53•18 Nov 2023
Loving a Narcissist Without Losing Yourself
Episode Overview
- Loving someone who continually hurts you is a form of self-sabotage and often reflects a one-sided, draining relationship.
- Exhaustion and sleep deprivation make people vulnerable to manipulation, so rest and basic self-care are crucial forms of protection.
- Creating space or going no contact with a narcissistic person can help you think clearly and make decisions based on your own thoughts rather than their influence.
- Faith and a personal relationship with God are presented as central to finding guidance, strength and clarity about whether to stay or leave.
- Practising self-love and self-preservation, rather than constant sacrifice, is encouraged as a healthier expression of love for both yourself and others.
“You don't have to stay on that cross. You don't have to keep being beaten, taken advantage of. You can step away. You can disconnect.”
How do people find hope in the darkest times? Dr. Theresa M Bell tackles that question head‑on as she talks about loving people who keep hurting you, especially those with strong narcissistic traits. Speaking from her own experiences of being used, drained and betrayed, she breaks down what narcissism looks like in everyday life: selfishness, a lack of remorse, endless taking, and a relentless drive for power and advantage.
She explains that, "Narcissists only have people in their life as a tool," and shows how kind, giving people often become their favourite targets. You’ll hear her link very practical issues like sleep deprivation, overwhelm and burnout to why people miss red flags. When you’re exhausted and “all over the place”, as she puts it, a narcissist can "take you and use you like a ragdoll".
She uses simple analogies, like comparing your own need for rest to charging a mobile phone, to keep things clear and relatable. Faith runs through the whole talk. Dr. Bell repeatedly points back to going to God with every decision, creating distance from toxic people, and trusting that "the enemy can’t take nothing away from you that God don’t allow".
She talks about soul ties, one‑sided relationships, and why staying with someone who constantly hurts you is a form of self‑sabotage. Her advice is plain and direct: step back, go no contact if needed, pray, and practise self‑preservation rather than sacrificing yourself. With a mix of hard truth and gentle humour, she reminds anyone stuck in painful relationships that "you don’t have to stay on that cross".
If you’ve ever wondered whether it’s loving or foolish to keep giving chances to someone who keeps wounding you, this conversation might help you pause, think, and ask what genuine love for yourself looks like.

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