Toxic Relationship Warning Signs: 4 Red Flags That May Indicate You're In a Toxic Relationship Relationships

Positive relationships – familial, romantic and platonic – can lead to improved mental health, physical health and well-being. Healthy relationships can even increase lifespan. On the other hand, research demonstrates that negative or strained relationships can have an adverse effect on one’s mental and physical health.

A toxic relationship, in particular, can impact nearly every aspect of your life. Therefore, it is especially important to be aware of the signs of a toxic relationship. According to WebMD, here are signs to look for:

1. Lack of trust. Trust is one of the most important elements of a healthy relationship. A lack of trust, however, is a telltale sign of a toxic relationship. Distrust can cause regular, even daily conflicts in your relationship.
2. Attachment anxiety. Positive attachment is a healthy part of a relationship. However, if one partner obsesses over the other’s availability or monitors them for signs of infidelity or other clues of betrayal, these are examples of attachment anxiety, which are unhealthy.
3. Jealously. Toxic jealously can look like: looking through a partner’s text messages or social media accounts, going through their belongings, or other ways of violating their privacy in an attempt to catch them cheating or lying.
4. Violence. Any form of abuse or violence is a definitive sign of a toxic relationship. Unfortunately, intimate partner violence occurs at a high rate – especially among younger adults. Abuse can be experienced in the form of emotional, verbal, domestic and many others. If you or someone you know is experiencing any form of domestic abuse, reach out to the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 800-799-SAFE (7233).

If you find yourself in a toxic relationship, it can feel overwhelming, even frightening. Know that you can get out of a toxic relationship, whether it be a friendship, romantic relationship or familial one. It’s important to know when and how to do so. Throughout the process it’s important to recognize your own worth. YOU are not the relationship.

Note: The content on 30Seconds.com is for informational and entertainment purposes only, and should not be considered medical advice. The information on this site should not be used to diagnose or treat a health problem or disease, and is not a substitute for professional care. Always consult your personal healthcare provider. The opinions or views expressed on 30Seconds.com do not necessarily represent those of 30Seconds or any of its employees, corporate partners or affiliates.

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