How to Recognise a Toxic Relationship: Signs, Narcissistic Abuse, and Healing

Описание: Toxic relationships are emotionally, psychologically, and often physically damaging — but recognising one from the inside can be difficult, especially when gaslighting and emotional manipulation are involved. In this video, psychotherapist Leila Steeds explores the dynamics of toxic relationships, the narcissistic spectrum, and how therapy can help you break free and heal.

We cover:
What defines a toxic relationship
Red flags: gaslighting, ghosting, smearing, invalidation
The narcissistic spectrum and codependency
Emotional, mental, and physical effects of toxic relationships
Why people stay and how to safely leave
How therapy can support healing and self-leadership

⏱️ Timestamps:
00:00 – Introduction
01:00 – What is a toxic relationship?
01:43 – Internal vs external red flags
02:15 – Gaslighting and control tactics
04:05 – Trauma, love bombing, and emotional manipulation
05:20 – Emotional, mental, and physical effects of toxic relationships
07:17 – People-pleasing, burnout, and nervous system impact
08:43 – Constant criticism and shame-based control
10:05 – Jealousy, isolation, and loss of support systems
11:35 – Communication breakdowns and power struggles
12:36 – Dialoguing and healthy relationship alternatives
13:51 – Withdrawal as avoidance and punishment
14:39 – Narcissistic spectrum explained (0–10 scale)
15:55 – Codependency and early childhood adaptations
17:10 – Healthy narcissism
17:46 – Traits of narcissistic abuse: blame-shifting, denial, invalidation
20:20 – Narcissist traits vs personality disorder
23:35 – Emotional effects: anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem
24:19 – Why people stay (confusion, shame, punishment)
25:28 – Recognising behaviours in toxic partners
26:55 – Love bombing and trauma bonding
27:42 – How to start leaving a toxic relationship
29:40 – Rebuilding self-leadership and setting boundaries
30:30 – Why therapy and outside support are essential
31:40 – Summary: What healing looks like

💜 Explore more from Leila Steeds:
https://www.harleytherapy.co.uk/leila...

🧠 Looking for support or therapy?
https://www.harleytherapy.co.uk

🌐 Additional Support Resources:
Women's Aid (UK) – https://www.womensaid.org.uk (Support for those experiencing domestic abuse and controlling relationships.)
The National Domestic Abuse Helpline (UK) – 0808 2000 247 (Free, confidential 24-hour support.)
Relate – https://www.relate.org.uk (Offers relationship counselling and support.)
Out of the FOG – https://outofthefog.website (Great resource for people dealing with someone who has a personality disorder, including narcissistic personality disorder.)

⚠️ Disclaimer:
This video is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional mental health advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek support from a qualified practitioner. If you're in crisis, contact your GP or emergency services.