Imagine juggling so many tasks and responsibilities that you barely have a moment to breathe, let alone clean your home. Victims of narcissistic abuse are often left drowning in responsibilities, leaving them with little time or energy for tidying up. Dr. Judith Orloff, a psychiatrist who deals with trauma, explains that when people are overwhelmed by constant demands, their environment can quickly become chaotic. It’s hard to keep things in order when you’re already stretched thin.
4. Hoarding Tendencies
After enduring narcissistic abuse, you might find yourself holding on to things more than you used to. It’s not just about being a packrat; it’s often a coping mechanism that helps you deal with the emotional fallout. Dr. Jennifer McKinney, a therapist who works with trauma survivors, explains that people sometimes develop hoarding tendencies as a way to create a sense of security and control when everything else feels unpredictable. By clinging to things, you’re trying to build a buffer against the chaos and uncertainty you’ve faced.
5. Procrastination
You might constantly put off cleaning tasks, thinking you’ll get to them later. It’s not just laziness. For many victims of narcissistic abuse, procrastination can be a way of coping with overwhelming emotions and stress. Dr. David Tolin, a psychologist who studies hoarding and procrastination, says that delaying chores often happens because tasks feel too daunting or emotionally draining. When you’ve been through abuse, even simple tasks like cleaning can feel like a mountain to climb, leading to more clutter.
6. Control Issues
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