Toxic love: 6 signs that can not be ignored

When we imagine true love, we often see images of caring.
Trust and warmth. However, not all romantic relationships bring joy and security.
Toxic love is a special kind of bond that instead of being supported and inspired.
It causes anxiety, fear and destructive guilt.
As a journalist who has studied human relationships over the years,
I have heard stories that have even the most sincere feelings.
It could turn into emotional chaos. It is important to recognize these signals in time.
and prevent the toxic scenario from ruining your self-esteem.




1. Constant criticism and depreciation
Toxic relationships rarely begin with outright insults.
It's often very innocent -- "Well, you know I'm kidding."
“I just want you to be better.” Over time, the partner begins to increasingly point out “flaws.”
Whether it is appearance, behavior or professional success.
Such criticism is usually presented in the guise of care or a desire to help.
But in fact, it undermines your self-esteem and creates constant tension.


2. Manipulation and Emotional Blackmail
Like, “If you really love me, you do.” .. "
Or, "You're making me cry, how can you?"
Examples of emotional blackmail.
The goal is to achieve a certain behavior or decision.
causing the partner to feel guilt or shame.
In healthy relationships, people agree to something.
based on mutual respect, not fear or coercion.




3. Jealousy and Total Control
A little jealousy is sometimes seen as a sign of passion.
But in toxic love, jealousy gets out of hand.
The partner may require passwords from social networks.
call every half hour, suspected of constant infidelity
Or limit communication with friends. Such behaviour
This is not a manifestation of tender feelings, but a red flag.
It signals a desire for absolute control.


4. Unjustified demands and expectations bordering on absurdity
You may feel that you are constantly in a state of “debt” to your partner.
Do what he or she wants to do to the detriment of your own desires.
It can be absurd: any disagreement with a partner is presented as betrayal.
Any hobbies or attempts at self-development are criticized and suppressed.
You lose your freedom of choice and do yourself a disservice.
Playing by someone else's script.


5. Guilt without apparent reason
A key feature of toxic love is the constant generation of guilt.
If you don’t do what your partner expected, you automatically become “bad.”
And even if you do your best, there are new reasons.
Why are you “not trying hard enough”?
Living in the mode of permanent guilt is a direct path to loss of self-esteem and emotional burnout.




6. Ignoring your feelings and needs
In a toxic relationship, your “I” rarely counts.
If your partner is not interested in your emotions, values and outlook on life,
If your needs are always in the background,
It's a serious bell. In a healthy union, mutual respect is important.
The ability to listen to each other and find compromises.
When one partner is always dictating,
The second side becomes an “appendix” to the interests of others.


How to get out of toxic love?
If you find any of the above signs in your relationship,
It is important to recognize the problem and think about what you want from the future.
Perhaps you should consult a psychologist who will help to understand emotions and behavior.
Try to talk openly with your partner or, if no improvement is expected,
Decide to end the relationship. Remember, no romantic dreams.
It does not justify neglecting your feelings and safety.


Toxic love is not destiny, but the pathology of relationships.
It can slowly but surely destroy a person.
Respect, care and a sincere desire to understand each other
That's the foundation of really healthy feelings.
It is worth noting that love should not cause pain and constantly keep you in a state of anxiety.
Everyone deserves a relationship where they are valued, listened to and cherished.
They do not use and criticize without end.
The sooner you realize this, the easier it will be for you to return to harmony and find true intimacy.