Signs of Family Dysfunction & Narcissistic Abuse

Holiday gatherings can be a whirlwind, but for those of us with ADHD stuck in dysfunctional families—often featuring narcissistic abuse—this whirlwind is nonstop chaos and confusion. As the family “scapegoat,” I share what I’ve learned from years of research, therapy, and reading books like "You’re Not the Problem" (Helen Villiers & Katie McKenna) and "Adult Survivors of Toxic Family Members" (Dr. Sherrie Campbell). In this episode, we break down the telling signs of narcissistic and toxic family systems, drawing from Dr. Ramani’s insights on narcissistic behavior vs. an official NPD diagnosis. If you’ve grown up in dysfunction, these 🚩“red flags” 🚩 may feel normal—but recognizing them is the first step toward healing. I’ll also guide you through a three-part exercise to raise your awareness: identifying unhealthy traits, naming the emotions they trigger, and envisioning how to avoid repeating these patterns in the family you create. It’s time to break free from the cycle of chaos and reclaim your life.