A lot of people in toxic relationships cannot tell they’re in one. Those that don’t know something is wrong have accepted their partner’s behavior as a norm. While those that know something may be wrong might think they’re in too deep to leave.
A toxic relationship doesn’t mean overt violence. There’s a gradual transition from the rainbows and sunshine to the cloudy days and finally the thunderstorms. There are different categories of a toxic relationship. It could span from selfishness to full-on domestic violence. However, if you’re unsure what class your relationship falls under, toxic or not, this piece will highlight the significant indicators of a toxic relationship.
It’s usually about the other person
If you find yourself in a relationship where your views, strengths, or weaknesses aren’t validated or if you find yourself nursing imposed ideologies, you are most definitely in a toxic relationship. A lot of victims in toxic relationships develop an inferiority complex due to the toxic superiority of the partner. This is typically a fake hierarchy established by the toxic partner. The victim life’s ambitions are reduced to the care, nurture, and happiness of a toxic partner. They start feeding off any iota of affection shown by the partner. If this sounds like your relationship, it may be time to re-evaluate.
You’re always walking on eggshells
You’re in a toxic relationship if every conversation or activity you’re having with your partner feels like a war zone. You feel like you may always say or do the wrong things which will trigger some reaction from your partner. In situations like these, not only have you victimized yourself, you have consequently relinquished all authority you had in the relationship to the other person. A healthy relationship is built on equality of expression in a way that’s free from blame. If you’re experiencing anything outside this, it may be time to throw in the towel.
You keep making excuses for the other person
There’s nothing wrong with standing up for a partner whenever the need arises. However, if what you’re standing up for is detrimental to your wellbeing, like domestic violence or emotional blackmail, you’re definitely in a toxic relationship.
Your relationship is a big part of your life. Seeing that it can significantly impact your mental health, you need to take the steps that make you happy. If you’re in a relationship that makes you feel miserable every day, it’s time to move on.
