The Subtle Insidiousness of a Toxic Relationship: How to Spot the Warning Signs and Act Quickly

We often think of toxic relationships and domestic abuse in physical terms. But there are more subtle and insidious forms that are far more pervasive. For example, when an otherwise healthy bond between two people exhibits certain warning signs — certain patterns of behavior that point to an unhealthy and even dangerous relationship dynamic. In these circumstances it can be difficult to identify the warning signs and act upon them. This article will provide you with some common signs that a relationship is toxic, and why it's important to act swiftly.

There is a lot at stake when it comes to identifying the early warning signs of an unhealthy relationship. This is especially true if the relationship is with a family member or close friend. When we have someone in a close relationship who isn't just physically abusive, but emotionally as well — this can take a significant toll on our psychological and emotional well-being.

One of the most common signs of a toxic relationship is a sense of control. In a healthy relationship, both people should be able to express themselves, be independent, and make decisions freely. If one person is constantly trying to dictate the other's actions, dress, speech and thoughts, this is a huge red flag. It is also a sign of potential violence if the controlling partner resorts to physical or mental intimidation tactics in order to exert their “authority”.

Another sign of toxicity in a relationship is a lack of trust. Trust is an essential element of any healthy relationship. When there is a lack of trust, it can cause fear and lead to insecurity. This can manifest itself in many ways such as stifling communication, making accusations of infidelity, and asking questions in a way that borders on being interrogative.

Sometimes, one partner can become so consumed by their desire to “control” the relationship that they start exhibiting obsessive behaviors. This could look like obsessively checking the other person’s phone for messages and social media posts, or even controlling their whereabouts. These are signs that a person is struggling with power dynamics and needs to feel secure.

Furthermore, if one person is always deferring to the other one’s wishes, that could be a sign that their power has been taken away from them. Even if this is done out of love and concern for the other person, it can still be a sign that there are some underlying issues within the relationship.

Finally, if arguments become volatile and sometimes even violent, it may be time to take action. A fight can quickly spiral out of control, and it’s important to ensure that nobody gets hurt. However, sometimes these outbursts can be indicative of a larger problem at play—verbal abuse, manipulation, and threats of violence are all signs of a toxic relationship that needs to be ended.

It's important to note that these warning signs can often be hard to spot. Some may seem completely normal, when in reality they're part of an unhealthy relationship dynamic. That's why it’s important to be mindful of your own feelings, and observe the behavior of your partner carefully. And if any of the signs indicate that there are underlying problems, don’t hesitate to seek help from a professional relationship counselor.

No matter what situation you’re in, it’s important to know your rights and to look for discreet and safe ways to get help if you need it. It may not always be easy to actually leave a dangerous or unhealthy relationship, so fight for your safety and well-being — and as soon as possible.