Signs Your Relationship Is Toxic

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One important thing to remember about relationships is that not all of them are positive. Some relationships serve as a future learning experience of what not to tolerate moving forward.

If you’re currently in a relationship that causes you to have more tears than smiles, it’s probably time to leave it behind. Unfortunately, we have a tendency to rationalize behavior that is damaging and unacceptable. So, to help you better recognize characteristics of a toxic relationship, we’ve put together these signs.

Man surprised at friends flirting. (via Getty)

Excessive Jealousy

We’re human, which means that a little jealousy every now and then is perfectly normal, however there is a world of difference between feeling twinges of jealousy in a relationship and letting it obsessively consume you.

If your relationship is filled with jealousy at every turn, including at the smallest things, then it’s a clear sign that something is not right. Jealousy is a direct symptom of insecurity, which can be one of the worst things for a relationship to overcome.

Conflict, argument between African descent couple. Sadness, crying, anger. (via Getty)

Increased Criticism

Being constantly criticized is something that no one responds to well, this is especially true when you’re in a relationship. When you’re in love and committed to another person they should make you feel your best, not beat down your self-esteem with frequent critiques.

When someone criticizes you all the time it usually means that they are lacking within themselves and as a result taking their issues out on you. You don’t have to place yourself in the path of this behavior if you don’t want to.

Couple yelling at each other. (via Getty)

Arguing Is The Primary Means Of Communication

Arguing, that’s all you do. In fact, if it weren’t for arguments there would be no communication in your relationship at all. Nothing about this dynamic is normal or healthy relationship behavior…and you should exit as soon as you can.

When couples constantly argue, no one every really gets heard and things just become an increasing circle of dysfunction. This is also a very stressful way to live and that stress is bound to trickle down to other aspects of your life, including your work and family. Free yourself of the negativity once and for all.

Cropped shot of a young couple having relationship problems at home. (via Getty)

Everything You Do Is Considered Wrong

Toxic relationships are murder on your self-worth because you are often made to feel as though you’re not good enough in anything you do. If your partner makes sure to let you know that everything you do is wrong, you may start to actually believe it.

This way of beating you down emotionally is a way to make the other person in the relationship feel better about themselves at your expense. The only thing wrong you’re doing is continuing to stay in a toxic relationship.

And so begins the start of the blame game. Shot of a young couple having relationship problems at home. (via Getty)

You’re A Victim Of The ‘Blame Game’

When in doubt, blame the other person. This is a classic move of manipulation that is the foundation of many toxic relationships. The theory behind it is that if they shift the blame to the other person, you’ll apologize and they end up looking squeaky clean.

This flawed logic is a definite indicator that your relationship on life support. Remove yourself from being the scapegoat for everything that’s wrong with your relationship and just end it instead…you’ll be much happier.

Angry African American woman had a fight with her boyfriend at home. (via Getty)

You’re Condemned For Moving Forward

If you are met with hostility, negativity or condemned for moving forward with your life, then you already know that your partner is totally comfortable with keeping you stagnant because they fear your growth will mean the end of the relationship.

Anyone who loves you would never see you going forward in life a negative, in fact they should be your biggest cheerleader. This is yet another sign that the expiration date on your relationship was up a long time ago.

Portrait of unhappy woman lying in couch with man in background. (via Getty)

You’re Alienated From Your Loved Ones

When you’re in a toxic relationship, your partner likely feels that outside influences may cause you to finally leave them and better yourself, so they alienate you from your loved ones who could convince you to end the relationship.

Being shut off from your friends and family is not healthy and a sign that your partner is extremely controlling. Your loved ones were there for you before you entered into this toxic relationship…and they’ll be there after you end it.

Shot of a young woman looking upset while her boyfriend tries to comfort her. (via Getty)

Sexual Behavior Has Changed For The Worst

If the sexual behavior with your partner has changed to something that you’re uncomfortable with, you need to take action immediately. If they are increasingly rough with you or force you to do things that were never apart of your sexual history before, you have the right to say no.

Despite what some may think, yes, you can be sexually violated while in a relationship and you don’t want to wait around until things get to the point of no return.

African American couple. (via Getty)

You Have Increased Anxiety Or Fear

Being fearful every time your partner enters the room or when there name is mentioned is a sign that something is very, very wrong. You should feel love, happiness and respect with your partner, not dread at the thought of them.

The easiest way to figure this out is to ask yourself why you feel this way as it relates to your relationship. Chances are you already know the answer, but you’re too afraid to act on it.

Close-up portrait of sad young African American woman. (via Getty)

You’re Suffering From Some Type Of Abuse

There is no beating around the bush about this because of just how serious it is. If you are suffering from any kind of abuse in your relationship…GET OUT. This includes physical, verbal and emotional abuse, as they are all detrimental to your health.

You may be afraid to leave, but your safety should be your main concern.