You keep reassuring yourself that all couples must experience this. The high and low points are to be expected; after all, it is a human relationship. You persevere for a couple of days, which turn into weeks that grow into months. However, your connection with your partner still remains unstable. They want what’s best for you. Your mind must be blowing scenarios out of proportion.
But, perhaps you are right. Subtle signs are difficult to notice initially, but when observing no progression in a timely manner, we unwillingly must face the truth. The following signs provided are shared by Suicide CallBack Service.
Frequent arguing
Big arguments tend to arise from minor disagreements that can’t be resolved. Especially if this occurs frequently, it is invading into the well-being of your relationship. Sometimes, your partner can grow violent during these times of increased tension. If so, contact an individual you trust and remove yourself from these situations.
Silence
After arguing, receiving some silent commentary and awkward tension can be expected. However, if your partner continues to refuse to speak to you for an extended period of time, this makes it harder for you to communicate and resolve your issues.
Mean-spirited commentary
If your partner truly knows what irks you, and decides to share negative commentary with you during inappropriate times, especially during a fun-filled event, it’s as if they are seeking to destroy your inner well-being. Conscious that their words will hurt you, this is someone who finds pleasure in interfering with your happiness. This is not a quality you would want your romantic partner to possess.
Lack of effort
Take notice of who schedules the dates, casual hangouts, or even brainstorms ideas. If you are constantly held responsible to plan such events, the relationship is requiring too much effort on your part. Are you the only one who inquires on how they are feeling, or how they spent their day? If this is the case, you are in an unhealthy relationship. A healthy relationship requires both people to invest their time and mind. This doesn’t include your partner choosing to speak only of themselves and their emotional well-being.
If three or more of the following characteristics are present in your relationship, it can be identified as a toxic relationship, according to the University of Washington’s Health Center:
- Feel pressure to change who you are for the other person
- Attempt to control or manipulate each other
- Notice one of you has to justify your actions
- Feel worried when you disagree with the other person
- Feel pressure to quit activities you usually enjoy
It is advised to seek therapy if your partner is willing to improve the faults in your relationship.”If your partner ever tries to harm you physically or force you to do something sexually that should be a clear sign for you that it is an unhealthy relationship. In that situation, you should consider getting help or ending the relationship. Even if you believe the person loves you, it does not make up for the harm they are doing to you” (University of Washington Hall Health Center).
Sources:
https://www.suicidecallbackservice.org.au/blog/signs-of-a-toxic-relationship/
http://depts.washington.edu/hhpccweb/health-resource/healthy-vs-unhealthy-relationships/