Relationships can be wonderful, fulfilling experiences that bring out the best in us. However, sometimes relationships can become toxic, and it can be difficult to recognize when that happens. Toxic relationships can be harmful to our mental health and can hold us back from reaching our full potential. Here are seven signs that you’re in a toxic relationship, and what to do about it.
You feel drained after spending time with your partner
If you find that you always feel exhausted or emotionally drained after spending time with your partner, it could be a sign that your relationship is toxic. A healthy relationship should leave you feeling energized and uplifted, not depleted.
What to do: Take a break from your partner and spend some time doing activities that make you feel happy and fulfilled. Reconnect with friends and family members who bring positivity into your life.
Your partner is overly controlling
If your partner is constantly telling you what to do or how to behave, it can be a sign that they are overly controlling. This can be a red flag for a toxic relationship, as it can be a precursor to emotional abuse.
What to do: Set boundaries with your partner and let them know that you will not tolerate controlling behavior. Seek the help of a therapist or counselor if necessary.
Your partner constantly criticizes you
If your partner is constantly criticizing your appearance, your behavior, or your choices, it can be a sign of a toxic relationship. Criticism can erode your self-esteem and leave you feeling like you’re not good enough.
What to do: Communicate with your partner about how their criticism is affecting you. Let them know that you need their support and encouragement, not constant criticism. If they are unwilling to change their behavior, consider ending the relationship.
Your partner is emotionally manipulative
If your partner is constantly trying to manipulate your emotions, it can be a sign of a toxic relationship. Emotional manipulation can take many forms, from guilt trips to gaslighting.
What to do: Recognize when your partner is trying to manipulate you, and call them out on it. Set boundaries with your partner and let them know that emotional manipulation is not acceptable. Seek the help of a therapist or counselor if necessary.
Your partner is physically or verbally abusive
Physical or verbal abuse is never acceptable in a relationship. If your partner is physically or verbally abusive, it is a clear sign of a toxic relationship.
What to do: Get help immediately. Call the police or a domestic violence hotline if you are in immediate danger. Seek the help of a therapist or counselor to work through the trauma of the abuse.
Your partner is constantly jealous or possessive
If your partner is constantly jealous or possessive, it can be a sign of a toxic relationship. Jealousy and possessiveness can lead to controlling behavior and emotional abuse.
What to do: Communicate with your partner about their jealousy and possessiveness. Let them know that you value your independence and need space to grow as an individual. Seek the help of a therapist or counselor if necessary.
You feel like you’re walking on eggshells around your partner
If you feel like you’re constantly tiptoeing around your partner, afraid to upset them or make them angry, it can be a sign of a toxic relationship. A healthy relationship should allow you to be yourself and express your opinions freely.
What to do: Communicate with your partner about how their behavior is making you feel. Let them know that you need to feel safe and respected in the relationship. Seek the help of a therapist or counselor if necessary.
In conclusion, toxic relationships can be harmful to our mental health and well-being. It’s important to recognize the signs of a toxic relationship and take action to address them. This can mean setting boundaries, communicating with your partner, seeking the help of a therapist or counselor, or ending the relationship altogether.
Remember, you deserve to be in a healthy, supportive relationship that brings out the best in you. Don’t let a toxic relationship hold you back from living your best life. Take the necessary steps to prioritize your mental and emotional health, and seek the help and support you need to move forward in a positive direction. In these situations, it’s common to isolate yourself and lose contact with your friends and family, so make an extra effort to talk to them and let them know of your situation, no matter how hard it might seem to be in the moment.
If you or someone you know is experiencing abuse or violence in a relationship, there are resources available to help. You can contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or visit their website for more information and support. Remember, you are not alone and help is always available.
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