As well as some credible counselling and dedicated self care, it’s great to have arsenal when it comes to learning and protecting yourself against narcissistic abuse. That’s why I’ve suggested some of the best books on narcissistic abuse as helpful resources.

Facing Love Addiction by Pia Mellody

Although all Pia Mellody’s books are very useful resources for troubling relationships, Facing Love Addiction could be a great place to start. Especially as it divulges the details of a coaddicted relationship and what the signs and symptoms look like. It includes a practical recovery process and exercises. So you can help yourself heal from this aspect of co dependency and move towards healthier relationships.

Psychopath Free by Jackson MacKenzie

Psychopath Free is a book of healing. Its aim is to help you become a survivor of being in a relationship with a psychopath or other types of toxic relationships. It focusses not just on recovery but takes it a step further with information on thriving.

‘Have you ever been in a relationship with a psychopath? Chances are, even if you did, you would never know it. Psychopaths are cunning charmers and master manipulators. To the point where you start to accept the most extreme behaviours as normal… Even if it hurts you.’

The Wise Lesbian Guide to Getting Free from Crazy-Making Relationships & Getting on With Your Life by Amber Ault

For those in lesbian relationships that suffer from abuse or relationship trauma, this book is for you. Especially, if you’re experiencing a seemingly endless cycle of back and forth and breaking up and making up or everything feels like it is awash with drama.

‘If you are stuck in a confusing, exhausting, crazy-making relationship and looking for a way to make sense of your girlfriend’s self-centered, erratic, or volatile behavior, you need The Wise Lesbian Guide to Getting Free from Crazy-Making Relationships and Getting On With Your Life.’

Amber Ault, Ph.D., MSW spells out how three “personality disorders” (Narcissistic, Anti-social, Borderline) account for much of the toxic drama. Particularly in that keeps good women in relationships that are generally okay but wretchedly “crazy-making” most of the time.

Becoming the Narcissist’s Nightmare by Shahida Arabi

A down to earth guide on experiencing narcissistic abuse and manipulation. This book offers a real world perspective. And doesn’t confuse the reader with overly complicated concepts but is still incredibly informative. 

‘What is even more baffling is the addiction we form with our narcissistic abusers, created by biochemical bonds and trauma bonds that are also unlike any other relationship we experience. In this book, survivors will learn: 

• The red flags of narcissistic behavior and covert manipulation tactics, including subtle signs many survivors don’t catch in the early stages of dating a narcissist. 
• The motives behind narcissistic abuse and techniques to resist a narcissist’s manipulation.
• Why abuse survivors usually stay with a narcissist long after incidents of abuse occur…’
• and much, much more.

Overcoming narcissistic abuse may not be easy with books alone, even if they are some of the best books on narcissistic abuse. In fact, it can often be difficult to see your way out of this kind of relationship on your own.

As a counsellor with decades of expertise, I am endlessly passionate about helping people heal from relationship trauma. Consider booking a counselling appointment today.