The COVID-19 pandemic has made relationships more difficult for couples who either must live apart for safety reasons or are working from home at the same time. However, a healthy relationship will not be perfect, so working through the issues is worthwhile.
But, some couples may have a toxic partner, which can adversely affect the person’s mental health if they do not consult help as soon as they can.
The complications brought on by COVID could heighten the unhealthy traits a person possesses that may lead to toxic relationships.
If you are in a position where you have left a relationship, either toxic or healthy, but you cannot explain your feelings for your past partner, then BetterHelp may help shed some light on your feelings.
If you are unsure if you are in a toxic relationship, then be on the lookout for a few signs.
Being Blamed For Your Partner’s Emotions
You are not responsible for another person’s feelings. If your partner comes home, or during a date, and you feel like they are lashing out at you, and you feel uncomfortable, then you may want to think about your relationship.
Talk with your loved ones about how your partner has been treating you, and if possible, bring up your feelings to your loved one as well.
If the pattern is a regular occurrence, it could be a sign that your partner is not respecting your wellbeing. In addition, it may be a sign that your emotional wellness is determined by how your partner treats you, which is not healthy.
Not Being Listened To
Communication is key in a relationship, and if your partner is not listening to you, that could be a sign of relationship issues.
However, if your partner is stonewalling you, such as if you feel like bringing up certain topics might anger them in fear of them going silent, then that could also be an indication of an unhealthy relationship.
A toxic relationship may feel like you are walking on eggshells and trying not to anger your partner. Any kind of relationship, romantic or platonic, should not feel like you are restricted from expressing yourself.
Boundaries Are Not Taken Seriously
Instances such as a partner looking at your phone and seeing your messages might be a sign that they are not taking your boundaries seriously.
Your privacy should be well-guarded, and no one has the right to invade your personal space when you do not want them to.
In certain situations, a partner might try to masque their intentions by joking or telling their loved one they are overreacting. Both parties in a relationship should take their loved one’s concerns about the relationship seriously.
Imbalance of Power
If your partner is setting up rules, such as coming home at a specific time or getting their permission to see friends and family, they may be trying to establish a power dynamic where they have the authority.
If you feel uncomfortable, try to talk to your partner, and see if you can reach a peaceful conclusion. Or, if that is not possible, then you might consider ending the relationship.
Conclusion
There are more signs of toxic relationships, but only the person in the relationship can fully understand if their relationship is toxic.
By staying educated and having a reliable support network to turn to, you can come to your conclusions and take the next necessary step to ensure your happiness.
About Author: Marie Miguel has been a writing and research expert for nearly a decade, covering a variety of health- related topics. Currently, she is contributing to the expansion and growth of a free online mental health resource with BetterHelp.com. With an interest and dedication to addressing stigmas associated with mental health, she continues to specifically target subjects related to anxiety and depression.