There is a huge difference between empaths and energy vampires. The latter can be quite harmful to the mental health of the empath. Being with an energy vampire means that one has to protect themselves which is why self-protection from energy vampires is vital. Even if the energy vampire is a lover, family member, child, close friend or anyone else, it is important to steer clear from them and stay on the alert. The following strategies will help protect empaths from energy vampires.
Accept That They Exist
The first thing that needs to be done is that energy vampires need to be accepted for who they are. Most of the people that are in relationships with energy vampires tend to be empaths. Normally, empaths tend to attract energy vampire. Empaths always believe that everyone is good and that is how they end up being in a toxic relationship for far too long while just making excuses.
Energy vampires have a lack of empathy which is why they don’t really care about you. Although, it might hurt, but the first step is to realize that they exist and that you are not alone.
Find a Reality-Check Friend
Have a friend that has trustworthy vampire radar so that you can reach out to them when you feel uncertain about someone being an energy vampire. This is a friend that knows you really well and has not been affected by your vampire. So, whenever you are in an unsure situation, just give them a call.
Put Yourself First
The thing about energy vampires is that they fight for control. They tend to be manipulative and angry or even passive aggressive. They have a tendency to showcase their splitting behavior. Take a step back when you encounter such behavior. Remember that you matter and it is perfectly fine to put your needs above someone else’s for a change.
Regularly Pat Yourself on the Back
Normally, empaths give others too much credit, and don’t praise themselves for their own contributions by downplaying it. This is why you need to pat yourself on the back on a regular basis.
Say “No”
Saying “No” can be truly rewarding. In order to protect yourself, it is vital to minimize interactions with an energy vampire. It can actually be freeing to say “No” for a change and focus on your own needs. Learn how to turn people down politely and if they refuse to listen, then it might be time to take a break.
Now, it is not an easy task which is why you need to start small and build your way up from there. The main thing is that you need to make sure that you are not too easy for them to manipulate.
Get Support
When you finally understand energy vampires, it is time to get support. A reality-check friend is not the person to contact, but rather a psychotherapist who specializes in dealing with narcissistic abuse recovery.
