Warning Signs of a Toxic Relationship

Warning Signs of a Toxic Relationship:

Unhealthy relationships may be more common than we think. They can occur in all sorts of relationships, including family, friends, romantic partners, professionals, acquaintance, and our relationship with ourselves. Often toxic relationships cause high levels of stress that can impact mental health, physical health, social relationships, financial stability, and even sometimes employment. These warning signs are often subtle and get worse as the relationship progresses.

1. Conflict can be scary because of yelling, throwing items, calling names, making threats, or actively ignoring another person as a form of punishment.
2. Individuals avoid or hide important information from the partner.
3. A person blames other people for mistakes or behavior that is their responsibility.
4. Ignoring partner boundaries and needs when communicated.
5. When a partner’s actions do not match theirs words, especially when this is a pattern.
6. Unwillingness to apologize or a lack of change in their behavior after they make amends.
7. Avoids compromises or making sacrifices when needed.
8. Assumes the worst about their partner and accuses them without due cause.
9. Frequent negative comments about appearance, intelligence, mistakes, or challenges they may be experiencing.
10. Justifying abuse, or pushing, hitting, holding down another person, calling names, taking away their resources, denying them access to friends or family, etc.

There are more warning signs of unhealthy relationships. These are just a few common signs. If you notice multiple of these warning signs in a relationship I encourage people to talk to their trusted family, friends, and local mental health professionals to receive additional support.

To learn more about toxic relationships go to http://www.thehotline.org