It’s taken me a long time to come to terms with the impact my parent’s behavior has had on my mental state. Growing up, I never realized how the way they acted - attention-seeking and manipulative - was affecting me.
The first time I realized something was off was when I experienced short-term memory loss and panic attacks starting in high school. It was only recently that I recognized these physical symptoms were my body’s response to dealing with a narcissistic parent.
As soon as I realized what I was going through, it felt like a weight was lifted off my shoulders. There’s something liberating about finally able to name an issue, confront it head on and learn how to take proper care of myself.
It hasn’t been easy, but I’m trying to take small steps towards bettering myself mentally and emotionally. Talking to people who understand what it is like and taking some time out for self-care have both been super helpful! With enough effort and faith, hopefully, one day I can find peace within in spite of all that has happened in the past.