Initiating a divorce can be difficult. Divorcing an abusive narcissist can feel impossible. Fortunately, there are healthy ways to address trauma and finally divorce an abuser.
There are many resources available for survivors of abuse. If you need help, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233, log onto thehotline.org, or text LOVEIS to 22522. It may be helpful to discuss your situation with a professional and understand your options for recovery.
The Atlanta Divorce Law Group is also here to help with all your family law matters – even those involving a narcissist. We can provide legal assistance that empowers you to break free from a narcissistic abuser. A compassionate attorney at our firm can examine your case and help you overcome abuse to divorce a narcissist.
Recognizing Abuse
Abuse comes in many forms, and survivors may be unable to realize its scope and severity. Examples of abuse include but are not limited to:
- Unrealistic expectations;
- Denial (i.e. contesting your perspectives as a form of punishment);
- Gas-lighting, causing you to constantly second-guess yourself and your sanity; and
- Artificiality (i.e. treating you well in public and berating you in private).
This is not an exhaustive list. Your spouse may engage in other forms of emotional abuse or physical violence that damage your self-esteem and well-being. Everyone should be treated with kindness and dignity. You deserve that same respect.
Prioritize Your Mental Health and Physical Safety
When divorcing an abusive narcissist, it’s important to prioritize your mental health and physical safety. Be sure to give yourself the space – both physically and mentally – to begin recovering from the damage of abuse.
Make Emergency Plans to Escape Abusive Behavior
An abusive spouse can turn any moment into an emergency situation. Whether you face physical threats or emotional abuse, knowing you have a plan to flee danger will help you take action when you need to.
Plan for who and what you would bring with you, who you would contact, and where you would go at a moment’s notice. Create a list of local domestic abuse resources and keep them handy. You never know if an argument will spiral out of control, so always have a safety plan in place.
Contact an Abuse or Sexual Assault Hotline
Discussing your situation with mental health professionals can help you sort through your feelings as they happen. You can discuss previous abuse, your spouse’s behavior, and your options for overcoming trauma.
In addition to the National Domestic Violence Hotline, Georgians can contact the Georgia domestic violence hotline for localized support by calling 1-800-33-HAVEN. By talking with professionals, you can find the strength to overcome abuse from a narcissistic spouse.
Consider Contacting Law Enforcement for a Protection Order
If you fear for your safety or the safety of loved ones and pets, consider getting a protective order. A protective order can prohibit contact and communication between you and your abuser. This can give you the freedom to think about your situation and utilize the potential of domestic abuse resources.
For urgent matters, contact law enforcement right away. Your safety is the top priority. When you take these and other steps to mentally and physically protect yourself and/or your loved ones from abuse, you can focus on the legal aspect surrounding divorce with a narcissist.
Let a Lawyer Help You Overcome Abuse to Divorce a Narcissist
Our experienced, hardworking divorce lawyers can help you identify past and present narcissistic behavior. This will help you receive the proper treatment and potentially save you from future abuse.
Learning how to overcome abuse to divorce a narcissist is a difficult process but one that is worth your time and energy. Call our intake team to get started on your healing.
