In this inspiring episode of Inspiring Journeys, Mia Hanks shares her powerful story of surviving 29 years of narcissistic abuse in a marriage with a covert narcissist. She discusses the subtle manipulations, love bombing, and emotional control that make it difficult for victims to recognize the abuse. Mia opens up about the emotional and psychological toll, including trauma bonding, anxiety, and walking on eggshells, which made leaving her abuser so challenging. With the support of family and therapy, she gradually realized the truth and found the courage to break free.
Mia also talks about her healing journey, how sharing her story through her memoir Bride Made and creating the Sparkle of Hope bracelet is helping to raise awareness and empower other survivors. Her message is clear: no one is ever stuck in an abusive situation, and with the right support, healing and freedom are always possible.
Key Topics Discussed:
- Covert vs. overt narcissism, subtle manipulation, hidden abuse, entrapment.
- Emotional turmoil, trauma bonding, constant anxiety, difficulty leaving.
- Recognizing abuse, overcoming fear, breaking free, reclaiming identity.
- Healing, advocacy, Bride Made memoir, Sparkle of Hope bracelet, survivor empowerment.
Key Takeaways:
Support and self-awareness are key to breaking free: Family, therapy, and self-reflection play crucial roles in helping victims recognize abuse and find the strength to leave.
Healing and advocacy empower survivors: Sharing stories, raising awareness through her memoir Bride Made and the Sparkle of Hope bracelet, and supporting others help survivors reclaim their lives.
Societal and cultural pressures can keep victims trapped: Expectations to maintain appearances, fear of judgment, and traditional family values often make it harder for victims to leave abusive relationships.
There is always a path to freedom and recovery: With the right resources, support, and inner strength, anyone can break free from narcissistic abuse and rebuild a fulfilling life.
Noteworthy Quotes:
“With a typical narcissist, you tend to get swept up in this relationship before you realize what’s happening, and a lot of times we as victims don’t even realize we’re in an abusive pattern until we are so far into it that it seems there’s no way out.”
“Because he is a covert narcissist, he presents to the outside world as anything but a narcissist. He comes across as being very humble, very kind, very generous, very empathetic.”
“I had a therapist once ask, ‘What’s on your bucket list?’ And I said, ‘I don’t know.’ I honestly sat there in silence and realized I had no goals because I had given up my whole life for them.”
“I think with a narcissist, if you go back, chances that you’re going to get out a second time are probably slim to none, because then they’ve won, and I think it really changes the game.”
Mia’s Bio: Mia J. Hanks is a survivor of narcissistic abuse and the author of Bride-Made: A Memoir. After nearly 30 years in a covertly abusive marriage, she is dedicated to raising awareness about narcissism and helping others recognize the signs of toxic relationships. Through her memoir, Mia shares personal stories, practical insights, and hope for those seeking to break free. Her mission is to let victims know they are not alone and to empower them to reclaim their lives with strength and confidence.
Get In Touch With Mia
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