TOXIC RELATIONSHIPS

Are you in a toxic relationship?

Dr. Lillian Glass defines a toxic relationship as “any relationship [between people who] don’t support each other, where there’s conflict and one seeks to undermine the other, where there’s competition, where there’s disrespect and a lack of cohesiveness.” It does not have to be a romantic relationship, it can happen between colleagues, friends or family members.

Dr. Glass describes the following warning signs of a toxic relationship:

~ Persistent unhappiness with the relationship

~ Negative shifts in your mental health (mood, self-esteem, anxiety, eating habits, etc. )

~ Changes in your other relationships. For instance, not spending time with friends and family because you are emotionally drained from your toxic relationship or your toxic relationship takes up to much of your time (ex. having to accommodate or prioritize your partner constantly, not feeling like you are an individual anymore).

~ Concern from family and friends. If family and friends often comment on negative aspects of your relationship or express concern for your physical and mental wellbeing, don’t just ignore them. They might be on to something.

If any of these warning signs sound familiar, consider talk therapy as a way to understand your relationship better, how it became the way it is, how to make it better or how to part ways, if necessary.

However, if you feel you are in physical danger, please contact the authorities or the National Domestic Violence Hotline, available 24/7, at 1-800-799-7233.

For more information on Dr. Glass and toxic relationships, visit http://time.com/5274206/toxic-relationship-signs-help/

If you would like to contact me for therapy fill out a contact form or e-mail me at [email protected].