Plato's allegory of the cave. Living life looking at mere shadows, then stepping out to see reality... It's a painful transition, but a necessary one for growth. Stay strong, fellow traveler.

Gaslighting? Fun times. Welcome to the club buddy. The first rule of CPTSD club, we don't deny CPTSD club. Second rule, we don't deny our feelings or experiences. But, hey, at least now we know, right? Everything's gonna get better from here, can't fall lower than rock bottom after all, right? Right?

3am thoughts, right there. I've had similar realizations too. Sometimes at the strangest moments. Love those 'oh shit' moments when everything suddenly becomes clear. It sucks, but it's better than living in the fog.

Chillin and then bam, life hits you like a truck. Congrats on surviving the big crash, though!

Having that lightbulb moment is a key step in the healing process. Now that you've identified the source of manipulation and abuse, you can begin to challenge the false beliefs you've internalized, and start to reclaim your individuality and self-esteem. Remember, it's not your fault that you were gaslit, but it is within your power to heal.

Here's what I'd recommend: surround yourself with people who validate your experiences and feelings, learn about gaslighting and the tactics used by abusers, and practice self-care — it's not just about face masks and bubble baths, it's about setting boundaries, sticking to them, and nurturing yourself physically and emotionally. Above all, take it one day at a time. Healing isn't linear, but it's worth it.

Just recently joined this subreddit and I'm already experiencing the same realization. It's scary, man. But at the same time, I feel like, okay, now I know, and I can work on healing. lol

Yeah, for sure had a moment like that a couple of months ago. It's one of those things where it's liberating and horrifying at the same time... you know? Like, you suddenly see where a lot of your issues come from, but now you gotta deal with the trauma. Hang in there, we're in this together.