About the Book
Escaping The Void helps readers to understand, recognise and respond to the toxicity of emotional (narcissistic) abuse. The author records the typical journey of a target (‘victim’) of emotional/narcissistic abuse, from discovering their unhealthy relationship, to separation/divorce and starting a new, narcissist-free life. Readers learn from the author’s own experiences about the schemes, tricks and behaviours used by narcissists to stall, disrupt and punish their partner or friend. We see how lack of empathy, obsessive self-focus and entitlement drive narcissists to behave in ways that are difficult to comprehend as a life partner, close friend or work colleague: people are disposable pawns and relationships are transactions that bring personal gain. We see why these emotionally abusive and toxic relationships drain our energy, confidence and sense of who we are. The author takes us behind the narcissist’s mask, helping us to see why they must feel powerful and in control: they are grossly insecure and driven by fear. But Escaping The Void is much more than a book of analysis: it is also a book of action. Readers learn how to stand-up to bullying, set strong, protective boundaries and neutralise the narcissist’s sense of power. Comprehensive appendices focus on important topics: the divorce process (including the UK 'No Fault' divorce), where to find help and support from specialist agencies, how to engage narcissist-savvy legal support, healthy and unhealthy relationships and quotes from survivors of emotional abuse and those who help them. Escaping The Void is a practical, accessible handbook for anybody who faces narcissists and narcissism in their daily life. It is a powerful ally for those who desperately need to be heard and receive support. Ultimately, it is a story of how to escape from despair and the crazy-making world of the narcissist.
Table of Contents:
PREFACE, PROLOGUE, CHAPTER 1: THE LONG AND WINDING ROAD - An Introduction, CHAPTER 2: IF I COULD TURN BACK TIME - Discovering Abuse, CHAPTER 3: I CAN'T GET NO SATISFACTION - Narcissism Explained, CHAPTER 4: KNOWING ME, KNOWING YOU - The Victim, CHAPTER 5: YOU'LL NEVER WALK ALONE - Supporting the Victim, CHAPTER 6: TRUE COLOURS - The Narcissist's Mask Falls, CHAPTER 7: ABC - Abuse and Divorce: Law and The Narcissist, CHAPTER 8: MACK THE KNIFE - Narcissist-Savvy Legal Teams, CHAPTER 9: SITTING ON THE DOCK OF THE BAY - Mediation, CHAPTER 10: BUSY DOING NOTHING - Narcissists and Distraction, CHAPTER 11: YOU'VE GOT A FRIEND - Secret Saviours, CHAPTER 12: MONEY, MONEY, MONEY - Narcissists and Expert Help, CHAPTER 13: WE CAN WORK IT OUT -
Financial Dispute Resolution, CHAPTER 14: THE FINAL COUNTDOWN - When Narcissists Meet the Law, CHAPTER 15: HOTEL CALIFORNIA - Escaping the Void, CHAPTER 16: BEAUTIFUL PEOPLE - How to Spot Narcissists, CHAPTER 17: LIVE AND LET DIE - How to Deal With Narcissists Day-to-Day, REFERENCES, APPENDIX I: HELP! - Finding Help for Abuse, APPENDIX II: WORDS - Definitions of Words, Terms and Expressions, APPENDIX III: CAN YOU FEEL IT? - Important Supporter Characteristics, APPENDIX IV: D.I.V.O.R.C.E - The UK Divorce Process in Detail, APPENDIX V: WOULD I LIE TO YOU? - The Narcissist's World, APPENDIX VI: EYE OF THE TIGER - Finding Narcissist-Savvy Legal Help, APPENDIX VII: ROAD TO HELL - How Narcissists Twist the Truth, APPENDIX VIII: I WILL SURVIVE - In the Victim's Own Words, APPENDIX IX: PAPERBACK WRITER - Helpful Reading to Discover More.
About the Author :
Stuart Wood has supported friends and family through and out of emotionally abusive (narcissistic) relationships. He has seen how narcissists operate and the destruction they cause, wherever they are found. Stuart holds a PhD in neuroscience and worked in clinical research and medical education for 20 years. These are strong foundations for his carefully researched approach to his work. He is a skilled presenter, speaker and writer who makes new or complex ideas easily understood by people of all ages and abilities. Stuart sets facts and learning points within context making them relevant and accurate. Known for his patience Stuart has enabled thousands of adults and children to face, challenge and overcome their fears since 2008. He is an experienced drummer and percussionist and a keen photographer.
Review :
// "I think this will be a great support to those coming out of an abusive relationship" Karin Walker - author of 'Divorcing a Narcissist: the Lure, the Loss, the Law' // "A most comprehensive account of Narcissism, their attitudes and behaviours, and the destruction and harm they can cause to individuals, businesses and communities. The step-by-step guide, with helpful take home messages at the end of each chapter, make it an easy but informative read. I've learned so much about how relationships are affected by a Narcissist infiltrating their toxic influence, and now have the tools required to move forward and take control. Thank you for this excellent account." Amazon Review, 5 stars, (Verified Purchase). //
