Navigating the Pain of Moving On from a 15-Year Narcissist Relationship: A Journey to Healing

Welcome to a journey towards healing from the pain of moving on from a toxic relationship, especially when that relationship lasted as long as 15 years. This article is dedicated to those who have been left feeling depressed, hurting, and lost after their ex-narcissist partner.

Understanding the Deeper Layers of Grief

You are not alone in feeling depressed even after you have discarded a partner who was toxic for you. Managing the pain and loss that comes with ending a 15-year relationship is a complex and nuanced process. It's important to address the mental and emotional aspects of your healing journey.

First, take a good look at yourself and acknowledge the current state of your mental and emotional health. Healing doesn't happen overnight, but it is a process. Spend time healing by keeping busy and moving forward. Try to think less about the past, but remember the bad times and all the hurt. This will help you learn to let go.

If you find yourself in a particularly dark place, seek professional help. Your physical and mental health are equally important, and it's crucial to address any underlying mental health issues. Don't rush into another relationship until you have fully recovered from the last one.

My Journey Through the Healing Process

From personal experience, it took me three and a half years before I was willing to talk to or be around another man. Mentally, the pain lingered for even longer. Many people have experienced the resilience of time as a great healer. While it seems impossible while in the midst of pain, over time, healing will come. I can attest to this, as can millions of others who have gone through similar experiences.

Strategies for Moving On

Let's dive into some strategies that can help you navigate this healing process:

1. Writing in a Journal

Writing down your thoughts, feelings, and experiences can be a powerful way to release emotional burdens. Keep a journal and write honestly about your journey. This can help you process and understand your emotions better, and may even provide some clarity on how to move forward.

2. Emotional Release

Crying can be cathartic. Allow yourself to cry until you can't cry anymore, and the pain seems to seep out of you. Physical release can help you process and move on from your past.

3. Keeping Busy

Stay engaged with friends and family to keep your mind occupied and to avoid dwelling on past pain. Engage in activities that bring you joy and that might even distract you from the pain. Read, watch your favorite films or TV shows, and listen to your favorite songs—but avoid romantic ones.

4. Changing Negative Thinking Patterns

Shifting your mindset from negative to positive can significantly improve your emotional state. Instead of saying, "I can't…" say, "I can/will." Change, "I'll never get over this," to, "I will get through this." A positive mindset can help you regain your confidence and hope for a better future.

For years, I found myself stuck in negativity, believing that love and happiness were out of reach. I vowed never to love again because any future partner would likely cause me as much pain as my ex-ex-fiancé did. However, within three years, I met an amazing man who loved me for who I am. He is the most patient, calm, loving, caring, and kind man I have ever met. These walls slowly came down, and I realized that love and happiness can exist again.

In time, you will find someone else who is everything your ex was not. Don't give up hope. Trust the process of healing and know that a better future awaits you.

Remember, healing is a journey. Take it one step at a time and celebrate every small victory along the way. Your future is bright, and love and happiness are within reach.