Common Signs of a Toxic Relationship

Toxic relationships are more common than you may think. As many as one in four women and one in three men have experienced a toxic relationship. These unhealthy relationships can create lasting emotional scars, making it difficult for the person to move on and trust others. Knowing the common signs of a toxic relationship can help you recognize and acknowledge if you are in an unhealthy situation.

5 Common Signs of a Toxic Relationship

Knowing the signs of a toxic relationship can save you heartache later. You can end the relationship before marriage if you recognize the red flags early. Don’t despair if you didn’t see the signs before marriage. Many abusers are adept at hiding their nature until they feel they have you under control. Sometimes, their manipulation tactics start small and grow over the years.

There are signs that are common to a toxic relationship.

An Abuser Becomes Jealous and Controlling Easily

Isolation keeps their victims from gaining confidence and seeking help. Abusers will project their own insecurities and fears onto you. If your significant other was abandoned or neglected as a child, they may project that onto you. If your abuser cheats, they may accuse you of flirting or having an affair.

An Abuser Talks About You Behind Your Back

To maintain control, an abuser may spread lies about you behind your back or, tell people you are crazy or have anger issues. They need to be the focus of attention and often do this by playing the victim and making you the abuser. They must keep you from learning about their lies and may keep you from other people, especially their friends and coworkers.

An Abuser Makes Demeaning and Critical Comments

An abuser may criticize you for everything and make demeaning comments. They may outright call you names or imply that you are not smart enough, clever enough, or pretty enough. They may comment negatively about your appearance, weight, or intimate details. These comments are meant to break you down and rob you of your self-esteem, making it easier for them to control you.

An Abuser Will Lose Their Temper Easily

Many victims walk on eggshells to keep an argument from starting. Tan abuser’s actions may be unpredictable. One day, they may laugh off dinner getting burned in the oven. The next time, they may punch a hole in the wall or rip a cabinet door off the hinges. They berate you for minor inconveniences or blame you for not being able to find something they lost. Abusers with uncontrollable anger leave their victims feeling anxious and fearful, dreading the next outburst.

An Abuser May Hit You or Others

Physical violence should never be part of a relationship. Your partner is supposed to protect you, not cause you bodily harm. If you are in a physically abusive relationship, confide in a trusted friend or family member and seek help immediately. This is a dangerous situation, and you need to work on a plan to leave. A counselor can walk with you through each step.

Confidential Help for the Signs of a Toxic Relationship

If you recognize the signs of a toxic relationship in your own, connect with our office today to schedule a counseling session. Leaving a toxic relationship can be challenging and, in some cases, dangerous. A Christian counselor can connect you with resources to get you and your family to safety. All information is kept confidential. After your physical safety has been established, you will work on your emotional and mental health to heal from the trauma.