We usually tend to stay in a relationship that is not making us happy or content in any way because we are so afraid of breaking up and hurting the other person. We don’t want to let go of our partners even though they might be abusive. We keep thinking that we can change them, not realizing it may not be a possibility at all. Every relationship has its ups and downs but some downs might actually be red flags that you are missing. These hidden signs can often drain you mentally and emotionally. People get involved with the abuser so deeply that they are unable to differentiate between healthy and unhealthy behaviors.
To lead a healthy lifestyle and look after your mental health above everything else, you need to learn about these red flags, and identify them in your relationship.
Here are a few signs of a toxic relationship that you should watch out for:
Lack of communication: A relationship is based on trust and communication. Too little communication as well as overindulgence in each other’s lives, can both be harmful in a relationship. If your partner is questioning you over every small detail such as where you are going, what you are planning to do, with whom you are spending your time, etc., you need to take it up with them and communicate how you’re feeling about it. Sometimes, this may indicate feelings of insecurity or may imply a lack of trust. Very little communication can give rise to unnecessary misunderstandings as well as create distance between you and your partner. Thus, communication is one of the most important building blocks of any relationship. Communication means that both you and your partner calmly address your thoughts and feelings without being judgmental.
Lack of self-confidence: If your partner constantly makes you conscious about yourself or your appearance, or they tell you how they deserve so much better than you, it is a clear red flag. Two people get into a relationship because they admire each other for who they really are and together, they aim to grow into better individuals. If your partner constantly brings you down for no reason, you must realize that the words “I love you” mean nothing unless they are reflected through your partner’s actions. Condescending actions are definitely not a sign of love. In such a case, if you do not take active steps towards distancing yourself from your partner, you could end up losing all your confidence over time. A person who appreciates you and helps you grow is the one to stay with, not someone who pulls you down.
Lack of honesty: If we had to measure to what extent a relationship is healthy or unhealthy, honesty would be one of the most important criteria of evaluation. While communication is extremely important in any relationship, having honest and truthful conversations is even more important. Expressing some of our feelings or thoughts can sometimes be difficult, threatening or even uncomfortable, especially if we were to be hundred percent honest about them. In order to avoid confronting your partner or getting into a “weird” phase in a relationship, oftentimes we end up lying. Once we start lying, we all know that it becomes a never-ending chain of lies. And by hiding our feelings or lying about events, we not only put our relationship at stake but also constantly feel guilty about it. However, by choosing to be honest and real, we consciously make an effort to strengthen our bond because at the end of the day, it is these uncomfortable conversations that bring comfort in a relationship.
Your relationship changed you, but not in a good way: Ever since you got into a romantic relationship with someone, have you ever felt that you have changed? Or have your close ones told you that your behavior seems different after you’ve gotten into a relationship? Well, while healthy relationships actually uplift your general mood, toxic relationships can make you feel disconnected and drained. The emotional exhaustion and constant fights you have with yourself and your partner can leave you feeling fatigued. You feel a constant need to fix everything that you are going through but you do not understand how. You might end up behaving in a way that you usually do not. If this description matches the situation of your present relationship, you need to take some time off from your romantic relationship and work on yourself.
Gaslighting behavior: Gaslighting, a term used very often, may imply multiple things. In the context of a romantic relationship, however, it is when your partner manipulates you into believing what you are thinking is not right. It is a way of manipulation so much so that you lose trust in yourself. If you ever suspect that your partner is gaslighting you, making you question and doubt your own beliefs and thoughts, it is time to step away. You can try to seek professional help from a Relationship counselor in Delhi. They can guide you through your emotions and suggest ways to ground your emotions and eventually, take a decision regarding your relationship.
Relationships that do not bring the satisfaction and happiness you deserve, do not have to be in your life. Do not fear to walk away from a relationship that does not bring you peace or help you grow as an individual. Do not try to fix anyone or your relationship if the other person is not willing to put in the same amount of effort as you. And if you feel that it’s too difficult for you to do that, you can always consult the Best Counselor in Delhi or in your local area. For instance, Happitude Studio is one such place in Delhi, which has helped a great number of couples and individuals find their happy place. Happitude Studio offers both online and offline counseling in a safe, non-judgemental and warm environment. You can also seek help from a Relationship counselor in Delhi, like Dr. Rashi Ahuja, Founder of Happitude Studio, a renowned relationship counselor, who has helped many couples during her career. A good relationship counselor has immense knowledge and skills that can help you take better care of your mental and emotional health.