What Are the Symptoms of a Toxic Relationship?

Getting into a relationship can be exciting and fulfilling, but it’s also normal to experience ups and downs. When problems start surfacing, you may think about whether the relationship is still healthy and whether you should work on it together or break up with your partner.

The best way to determine whether a relationship is healthy is by taking a close look at how you and your partner interact. In a healthy relationship, you’re both focusing on your common goals and working to build each other up.

Some of the most basic aspects of a healthy relationship are trust, communication and respect. When you and your partner don’t show these qualities, the relationship is likely to suffer.

Controlling behaviors, such as being concerned about your whereabouts or repeatedly texting you until you respond, are signs of toxicity. They may be motivated by jealousy or a lack of trust, but they are also rooted in the desire to have authority and control over you.

Patterns of disrespect, such as constantly arguing or rubbing each other the wrong way, are also signs that your relationship is toxic. When you and your partner are no longer able to have honest discussions, it’s time to break up or move on.

Avoidance of conflict, such as walking on eggshells or avoiding bringing up issues, are other symptoms that a relationship is toxic. This is because you fear bringing up problems will cause tension in your relationship.

Negative self-image, such as a low sense of self worth or the fear of being rejected, can make people behave in unhealthy ways. They may be prone to demeaning their partners, and they may use unhealthful coping mechanisms such as alcohol or gambling to manage their emotions.

A lack of support, such as encouragement to pursue your dreams and a commitment to being your best self, is another symptom of a toxic relationship. When this happens, you might feel like you don’t have a voice in the relationship and that your partner doesn’t care about you or your goals.

Withdrawal from hobbies and activities that are enjoyable and a part of your self-care routine can be a sign that you’re in a toxic relationship, too. This could be due to a lack of energy or because your partner disapproves of your activities.

You’re constantly worried about your relationship, which can affect your mental and physical health. For example, you might spend too much time worrying about how you’ll pay your bills or if they’ll like the new outfit you’re wearing.

This can become an unhealthy cycle, so it’s important to seek help if you notice these warning signs.

It’s a great idea to work through your relationship with the assistance of a counselor or other mental health professional. They can help you and your partner assess the situation, discuss potential solutions and develop a plan for moving forward.

Although it’s not uncommon to feel bad in a toxic relationship, it’s still possible to turn things around and save the relationship. In order to do so, both parties need to be willing to work on themselves.