When we think about the relationships that we have and the people in our lives who we socialize with, we believe these are people who we enjoying spending time with, leaning on for support and giving us feedback when we need it.  In a good relationship we feel loved, secure with talking about our insecurities, respected and comfortable with being ourselves.

Most relationships do start off on a healthy note, but you may start to notice changes over time where the relationship becomes one sided.  When a relationship becomes toxic you will find yourself giving more and getting less.  The individual displaying the toxic behavior will become the more dominant one in the relationship. They will often project and displace their anger, frustrations and insecurities on you and in turn make you question “Did I do something wrong?” It is not unlikely that you find yourself apologizing for things you had no involvement in.  Toxicity can occur with family, friends, colleagues and in romantic relationships.

If you begin to notice changes in your attitude and feelings when thinking of this person such as irritability, anger, frustration, anxiety, not wanting to be around them or purposeful avoidance of interactions, reassess what’s occurring in the dynamic that isn’t working anymore.

Toxic relationships can sometimes be repaired, but requires open communication and has to be favorable to both individuals.  You have to maintain boundaries and the other party may or may not respond well.  Not saying anything and enabling the behaviors to continue will only further effect you.  You have to be able to make the decision of what is in your best interest.

If you need further assistance on the topic, call 551-775-0575 and let’s get you started.