It’s amazing how much the stress of narcissists can affect us. But it’s also amazing how much we can heal once they’re gone! No probs Dan. It’s the least I could do with all the mentions you’ve given me!

The really crazy thing was that my hair had gone from salt and pepper to shock white while I was in the relationship. I assumed that was permanent. Once a hair follicle runs out of pigment, it’s not known to come back. However, after about a year of no-contact, I noticed dark hairs growing in the field of white on my head. Over the following months, it was nearly back to the salt and pepper look I’d had when I first met my narcissist.

I couldn’t believe what I was observing, because it went against my understanding of hair pigmentation. I figured my memory or self-perception was off. However, poking around online about it, I found a theoretical explanation. When a person is under sufficient levels of stress, the body can produce excessive levels of hydrogen peroxide, which bleaches hair at the follicle. Reducing stress reduces hydrogen peroxide, reduces pigmentation loss.

Whatever the precise biological reasons, I look younger, feel healthier, more energetic and ambitious than when I was with the “love of my life.” Depression and emotional flashbacks still creep in from time to time, but with less and less frequency. There’s no question I’m in better mental and physical health, now.

Thanks for the mention in your latest post about Male Victims of Narcissistic Abuse, by the way!

Thanks Rod. Yes, I’ve lived through it too!

I was in a remarkably similar position to you Meg! The more you learn, the better prepared you’ll be.

What is it you want to do? I only ask because when your in such an unhealthy narc relationship, we dream of what it is we should otherwise be doing. They suck us dry of any confidence, any personal value, and any social ediqite.
Right now there are all sorts of schooling online for free or really cheap. I’m don’t know what your situation is, but don’t give up, don’t give in! Use what you know to help others. Your local children’s center is always needing advocates, counselors, ECT…. They offer free training that you get certified for for free!
It’s your call! Your only 50, you got this?! Your not alone!
Home health care aides are in high demand. Very simple and rewarding job. It’s what I do. Not bad pay either!
God’s on your side! We all are.
God Bless and Godspeed!

Thanks for your kind words. I don’t mind at all Ayesha. I’m glad I’m helping. That’s why I started this blog. The more we learn, the more we can heal. Plus the less likely we are to get bitten again!

Plan your escape. See a lawyer, save a little money. Find a new place to live. When you do leave, go “no contact”. You can do it!