It’s never easy to come to terms with the fact that you may be in an unhealthy relationship—especially when it started off so well. Everyone wants a love like you see in the movies, but the reality is that life hits you, infatuation wears off and you begin to see the person you’re with for who they really are. You start to ask yourself “When did it all go wrong?” and “How can I fix our relationship?”
It’s never easy to just walk away—after all, you may still be in love with this person. However, your mental health is a priority, and if you feel it deteriorating due to a relationship, it may be time to call it quits.
1. You always feel guilty
Relationships where blame is put entirely on one person are emotionally abusive. Feeling guilty or even responsible for your partner’s actions are a red flag. Some other common forms of guilt include making you feel responsible for their happiness or will to live.
2. Unpredictable behavior
Walking on eggshells in fear about how your partner may react to something you do or say is such an unhealthy trait in a relationship. The whole point of a relationship is to feel safe and comfortable being your complete self. Holding back how you truly want to act is toning down your personality. Be with someone who loves you exactly the way you are.
3. Manipulation
Have you ever expressed how you feel about something only to be the one apologizing in the end? Wait, what? So, you’re telling me that your partner somehow twisted the story and emotionally manipulated you into feeling like you did something wrong? That’s inexcusable and quite frankly it’s exactly how abusive people handle problems. They can’t own up to their wrongdoings, so they play the victim card and place it back on you. Classic.
Some other forms of manipulative behavior can also involve sexual abuse. This isn’t your typical hold-you-down and force you to do it, but more so getting in your head and making you feel guilty for not doing it.
4. Excuses, excuses, excuses
With toxic people, there’s always an excuse and there’s always a reason they acted a certain way. Whether it’s as lighthearted as a bad day or as deep-rooted as a traumatic past, let me tell you this: no one’s bad day or horrific past excuses their wrong actions.
5. Betrayal
Betrayal can come in a lot of different shapes and sizes. The biggest form of betrayal is, of course, cheating—which under any circumstance is never okay. Imagine putting so much faith and effort into one person, only to find out they’ve been unfaithful. Yeah, it’s heartbreaking. Betrayal can also come in other forms too, such as lying or insincerity.