What is a Toxic Relationship?

Toxic relationships are much more common than society likes to admit. It’s important for us to know how to spot them before they get out of hand. So, what is a toxic relationship?

First, it’s important to remember there will always be occasional disagreements in relationships. Would it really be a good relationship if you didn’t feel comfortable voicing your thoughts and opinions? The difference is the dynamic within the relationship. How do the two parties handle those situations? Also remember, relationships can be platonic friendships, romantic partners, parents, siblings, or even a coworker - it can look very different on a case-by-case basis. 

In general, toxic relationships can cause dysfunction in your primary foods. Primary foods fuel our life and are the food that is off our plate. In a toxic relationship the other party uses the relationship for their own sole benefit - to build their ego, get social validation from others, feel in control of you, or maybe avoid responsibility. There are a whole host of other reasons someone in your life may be toxic.

Most importantly, know that this behavior can come gradually and covertly, pushing the boundaries of what’s acceptable to you before you realize you’ve lowered the standards you set for yourself and the relationship. You start to believe you are responsible for the other person's unhappiness, or treatment of you and you internalize the negativity as something you have caused or are responsible for fixing.

Keep this in mind as you navigate interactions with people in your everyday life. Know what to look for ahead of time to save you from unnecessary stress and emotional strain.