Life After Narcissistic Abuse with Author Dana S. Diaz
In this episode, Dana S. Diaz shares her journey of surviving narcissistic abuse and how it inspired her to write her book, Gasping for Air. She discusses her difficult childhood, living with a narcissistic stepfather, and the abusive marriage she endured. Dana explains the various forms of narcissistic abuse and the impact it had on her physical and mental health.
She also shares her process of writing the book and the surprises she encountered along the way. In this conversation, Dana S. Diaz shares her personal journey of leaving an abusive relationship and finding the strength to rebuild her life. She discusses the importance of recognizing the real deal breaker in a relationship and taking back control of one's life. Dana emphasizes the mind-body connection and the impact of trauma on our health. She also highlights the responsibility of the abuser and the need to shift the focus from the victim to the perpetrator.
Dana offers advice to her younger self and encourages others to believe in the possibility of a better life. She shares her experiences as a single parent and the challenges she faced, as well as the importance of finding resources and support. Dana discusses the healing process and the power of community and resilience. She also shares her plans for the future, including writing more books and speaking engagements.
Dana S. Diaz studied journalism and psychology at DePaul University. While there’s no better teacher than life experience and Dana has had life-long experiences with narcissistic abuse, her education did give her the ability to accurately verbalize and express how narcissistic abuse creates confusion and conflict within victims.
Today, Dana is a proud voice for fellow victims who are unable, afraid, or ashamed to share their experiences. She strives to create awareness and understanding to ensure victims are given the support they need to first understand their situation and then begin the healing process. Her first book, chronicling her own abusive marriage that lasted nearly three decades, started as a journal that she hid under the couch cushion in the basement.
Key Takeaways:
- Narcissistic abuse can have a profound impact on a person's physical and mental health.
- Narcissists use various forms of abuse to control and isolate their victims.
- Writing can be a powerful tool for healing and raising awareness about narcissistic abuse.
- It is important to listen to our bodies and pay attention to the signs of emotional distress. Recognizing the real deal breaker in a relationship is crucial, and it may not be apparent until it happens.
- Taking back control of one's life is essential for personal growth and well-being.
- The mind-body connection is powerful, and trauma can have a significant impact on our health.
- The responsibility for abusive behavior lies with the abuser, and the focus should shift from blaming the victim.
- Believing in the possibility of a better life and finding support are key to overcoming challenges.
- Writing and speaking can be powerful tools for healing and sharing one's story.
You can find Dana here:
WEBSITEwww.danasdiaz.com
Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/danasdiazauthor/
Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/danas.diaz/
LINK TO BOOK:Gasping for Air: The Stranglehold of... by Diaz, Dana S. (amazon.com)
Other Important Links:
Divorce Book: So You're Divorced, So What?
Instagram: @SimplyShaunnaLee
Facebook: @SimplyShaunnaLee
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