A relationship can be a wonderful thing, where you and your partner support and encourage each other. However, not all relationships are healthy, and in some cases, they can become toxic and damaging to your well-being.

Knowing the signs of a toxic relationship is important, so you can make informed decisions about how to proceed and when to seek help.

1. Controlling behavior

A toxic relationship often involves one partner attempting to control the other’s thoughts, actions, and feelings.

This can manifest in a range of ways, including checking your phone, telling you who you can and can’t spend time with, and dictating what you wear or how you style your hair. If your partner regularly tries to control you, it’s likely that you’re in a toxic relationship.

2. Blaming you for everything

In a healthy relationship, both partners take responsibility for their actions and work together to resolve conflicts. However, in a toxic relationship, one partner may constantly blame the other for every problem that arises.

This can lead to feelings of guilt and shame, and can make it difficult for you to communicate effectively with your partner.

3. Gaslighting

Gaslighting is a form of emotional abuse where one partner manipulates the other into questioning their reality.

This can include denying that something happened, telling you that you’re overreacting, or making you doubt your memories or perceptions. Gaslighting can be difficult to recognize, but it’s important to watch out for if you suspect that you may be in a toxic relationship.

4. Jealousy

While a little bit of jealousy can be normal in a relationship, excessive jealousy can be a sign of a toxic dynamic.

If your partner is constantly questioning you about who you’re spending time with or accusing you of being unfaithful without any evidence, this is a red flag that your relationship may be unhealthy.

5. Physical or verbal abuse

Any form of physical or verbal abuse is unacceptable in a relationship and should be taken seriously. If your partner ever hits, slaps, kicks, or pushes you, this is physical abuse, and you should seek help immediately.

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Similarly, if your partner frequently insults, belittles, or yells at you, this is verbal abuse and it’s important to recognize that it’s not your fault.

6. Withholding affection and intimacy

In a healthy relationship, affection and intimacy are important components of feeling loved and supported. However, in a toxic relationship, one partner may withhold these things as a form of punishment or control.

If your partner is constantly withholding affection and sex, this is a sign that your relationship may be toxic.

7. Ignoring your boundaries

Everyone has boundaries that they need respected in order to feel safe and secure in a relationship.

If your partner consistently ignores your boundaries and pushes you to do things you’re not comfortable with, this is a red flag that your relationship may be toxic. Remember that your feelings and needs matter, and it’s important to communicate them to your partner in a clear and assertive way.

8. Disrespecting your opinions and beliefs

In a healthy relationship, both partners respect each other’s opinions and beliefs, even if they don’t always agree. However, in a toxic relationship, one partner may belittle or ridicule the other’s thoughts and feelings.

If your partner is dismissive of your opinions or makes you feel stupid or inferior for holding certain beliefs, this is a clear sign that your relationship may be toxic.

9. Separating you from your support system

Your support system is made up of the people who care about you and support you through life’s ups and downs. In a healthy relationship, both partners encourage each other’s relationships with friends and family.

However, in a toxic relationship, one partner may try to isolate the other from their support system. If your partner frequently criticizes or discourages you from spending time with your loved ones, this is a sign that your relationship may be unhealthy.

10. Feeling drained, anxious, or depressed

Your relationship should be a source of comfort and joy in your life, not a constant source of stress and anxiety.

If you find that you’re always on edge around your partner, or if you feel drained and unhappy after spending time with them, this is a red flag that your relationship may be toxic. Trust your instincts and take steps to prioritize your well-being.