You may have heard about toxic relationships from the media, your friends, or even in therapy. So, what is a toxic relationship? It seems to be one of those things people talk about but don’t even fully understand. That’s why this blog is here to give you the tea on toxic relationships.
What is a Toxic Relationship?
A toxic relationship is a relationship where the parties involved are not healthy for each other. It can be characterized by patterns of abuse, manipulation, and control. It can be emotional, physical, or mental, and it can happen in any type of relationship. It’s harmful to both parties involved and can often lead to further damage down the road. Toxic relationships are not always easy to spot as they can often be disguised as something else. But, that doesn’t mean that they aren’t around.
What Are Signs of a Toxic Relationship?
You have likely heard of the term “red flags” before. They are warning signs that something is not right. The same goes for toxic relationships. Signs of toxic relationships can vary for each relationship. Some toxic relationships can show many signs whereas others might only have a few. It all depends on the severity of the toxicity.
Some red flags or signs of a toxic relationship are:
- One or both partners are overly jealous
- One or both partners are constantly putting each other down
- There is a lot of drama and arguments
- One or both partners are always trying to control the other
- There is a lack of communication
- One or both partners are abusive in a physical, emotional, or mental way
For example, if your partner is always making snide comments about your weight, your clothes, or the way you do things; that is a sign of toxicity. Or, if they are constantly trying to control what you do or who you see, that is also a sign of toxicity. These are “red flags” or are signs of a toxic relationship because they are not healthy behaviors. If you are experiencing these behaviors in your relationship, it may be time to take a step back and assess the situation.
What Can You Do About a Toxic Relationship?
The glass has shattered and you realized that your relationship is toxic. Now what? Well, the first step is acknowledging that you are in a toxic relationship. This can be very hard to do for some people because it means admitting that something is wrong. But, you’ve taken the first step by reading this blog and recognizing that there might be a problem. The next step is deciding what you want to do about it.
What Do I Do?
There are a few options you can choose from once you have realized you’re in a toxic relationship. But, first and foremost is to keep yourself happy and safe. This is always the number one priority. So, seeking support is a great way to start.
Seek Support
Talking to someone you trust about your relationship and getting an outside perspective can be very helpful. This can be a friend or family member. Or, even a couples therapist. The support of a couples therapist in Orange County, CA can help you see things more clearly and help you decide what to do. If you seek help from a couples therapist, they will be able to help support you through this difficult time. They can also offer guidance on how to deal with your toxic relationship.
The Benefits of Couples Therapy
If your partner is willing, you both can try to work it out by going to couples therapy. Your couples therapist will be there to support you both and help you work through your issues. For example, they can help you with communication skills and conflict resolution. If you choose to go this route, both parties must be committed to the process. So, if your partner is not willing or if therapy doesn’t work, then you can choose to leave the relationship.
Leaving the Relationship
This might be a very hard and scary decision to make. But, it’s important to remember that you deserve to be happy and healthy. Leaving your toxic relationship can seem daunting. But, there are people and resources to help you. Being in a toxic relationship long-term can have negative effects on your mental and physical health. So, if you decide to stay in the relationship, make sure to take care of yourself first and foremost. But, if you do decide to leave, know that there is support out there for you. You can thrive after a toxic relationship.
Start Working With A Couples Therapist with Moxie Family Therapy in California
Whether you’re in a toxic relationship or not, we could all use some help communicating with our loved ones. Our team of caring therapists is here to help you and your partner build a stronger, healthier relationship. We’ll provide you with tools to communicate better, resolve conflict, and deepen your connection. To start your therapy journey with Moxie Family Therapy, please follow these simple steps:
- Contact Moxie Family Therapy
- Meet with a caring postpartum anxiety therapist
- Start building a stronger, healthier relationship!
Other Therapy Services Offered at Moxie Family Therapy
At Moxie Family Therapy, we know relationship struggles may not be the only worry you have. This is why our therapists provide a variety of therapy services online and in-person at our Orange County, CA-based practice. We offer counseling for young adults, children, women, teens, and couples. Additionally, we offer therapy for therapists, clinical supervision, adoption therapy, art therapy, and play therapy. Our team is also happy to support the LGBTQ+ community. Contact us today and learn how we can help you reclaim your moxie.