How Do I Know If My Relationships Are Unhealthy?
In the moment, It is difficult to know whether or not you're involved in a toxic friendship/relationship. Consider the following to better interpret your situation:
- Has your self esteem decreased since connecting with this person?
- Do you feel like an outsider in your own relationship?
- Are you giving more than receiving or vice versa?
- Are you fearful or on-edge around your friend/partner?
- Do you feel threatened by your friend/partner?
- Do you feel constantly emotionally drained?
- Are you ever physically harmed by your friend/partner?
..These are signs of a toxic relationship!
- Has your self esteem decreased since connecting with this person?
- Do you feel like an outsider in your own relationship?
- Are you giving more than receiving or vice versa?
- Are you fearful or on-edge around your friend/partner?
- Do you feel threatened by your friend/partner?
- Do you feel constantly emotionally drained?
- Are you ever physically harmed by your friend/partner?
..These are signs of a toxic relationship!
What Effect Do Unhealthy Relationships Have On My Life?
A toxic relationship can effect your mental health short and long term. It decreases your self esteem, isolates you, effects your ability to trust, and distances you from yourself. It increases loneliness and self doubt. As if that wasn't bad enough, several studies conclude that an unhealthy relationship can effect more than just your emotions. Toxic relationships can put you at an elevated risk for heart, brain, thyroid, and immune system issues. Chronic stress is not a good thing for your mental or physical health.
So What Can I Do?
The first step of ending a toxic relationship is to commit yourself to distancing yourself fully. You cannot be half in half out with someone that brings that much negativity. Do not agree to be 'just friends' if you are involved in a romantic relationship with them. Unfollow and unfriend them on any and all social media. You are better without them. Replace the toxic people in your life with ones that enrich you and make you feel like your best self. That is self care.
Note: If you are involved in a physically abusive relationship, click here for additional information.