How To Heal From Narcissistic Abuse
How to heal from narcissistic abuse is a question many survivors ask as they begin to reclaim their lives after the trauma. For Martina Gruppo, the realization of what she had endured came with a flood of disbelief. She felt numb as she recognized the emotional abuse and the stolen years spent trying to love someone who systematically dismantled her spirit.
Martina’s journey is one of strength, heartbreak, and ultimately, hope—a story that might resonate with countless others navigating narcissistic abuse trauma.
Understanding Narcissistic Abuse
Narcissistic abuse is often misunderstood. It's not simply about bad relationships or even toxic behavior. It’s a calculated erosion of one’s identity—where gaslighting, manipulation, and emotional control wear down even the strongest people.
In Martina’s case, her husband painted her as hysterical and unstable, reducing her to a crying, crumpled heap while he maintained a charming façade to the outside world. This is a common pattern in emotional abuse—where the abuser remains protected by the very love and loyalty of their victim.
How to Heal from Narcissistic Abuse: A Survivor’s First Step
The first step in emotional abuse recovery is recognizing the abuse for what it truly is. Martina describes this moment as horrifying—like waking up in a nightmare that had been slowly unfolding for years.
“I couldn’t believe I let this happen to me,” she admits. “But the truth is, it didn’t happen because of me. It happened to me.”
Realizing that the shame does not belong to the survivor but to the abuser is crucial in beginning the healing process.
Listen to her interview below. Or watch the podcast episode on Youtube.
Emotional Abuse Recovery: Rebuilding After Narcissism
Today, Martina is a symbol of resilience. After enduring infertility, breast cancer, and the collapse of her marriage, she rebuilt her life in Italy. She now runs a successful B&B and Airbnb business, and continues to follow her passion for education and ethical living.
Her memoir is a self-deprecating, heartbreaking, and sometimes humorous look at life after narcissistic abuse. Through it, Martina aims to shine a light on the unseen scars of emotional abuse and offer solidarity to others walking a similar path.
How to Heal from Narcissistic Abuse: Words of Hope from Martina Gruppo
Martina offers this advice for those beginning their journey to healing:
Speak your truth. Your story matters—and it’s not your shame to carry.
Create distance. Healing starts when the gaslighting stops.
Rediscover joy. Even after trauma, life can be full of beauty and purpose.
Surround yourself with people who see the real you. Not the version your abuser tried to paint.
Healing From Narcissistic Abuse
How to heal from narcissistic abuse isn’t about “getting over it.” It’s about rebuilding your life with gentleness, strength, and clarity. As Martina Gruppo shows us, even after decades of manipulation, it’s possible to rise again—more grounded, more vibrant, and more whole.
