Common Red Flags of A Toxic Relationship And How To Leave Safely
Relationships can change for many reasons, be it life circumstances, you’ve grown apart or your partner has become different. Somewhere over time the happiness evaporates and behaviours can develop that make you feel trapped, alone and miserable. These behaviours can be subtle, easy to push down and pretend they are not happening. Eventually you reach a point where you know you want to leave and don’t know how. If you recognise any of these red flags it might be time to find the exit, safely and pursue the love you deserve.
🚩Jealousy
While a certain level of jealousy is natural, like not wanting your partner to date or flirt with other people there is a point it becomes toxic. If you feel your partner is constantly questioning you or accusing you of things you have not done, it can become a problem. If you feel scared to be around your partner or that you can not live freely without triggering him this could be a red flag. This jealousy is beyond healthy and you are being perfectly reasonable to no longer want to put up with it. Lawyer Oliverta Mediu of Waterstone Legal, one of the best law firms in London is familiar with the consequences of this behaviour. She provides a safe space, support and guidance for all those needing protection to leave.
🚩Feeling Nervous
We all get nervous from time to time. Proposing, big exam, public speaking, tick,tick,tick, The one place you should not feel nervous is in a healthy, loving relationship. Being scared to bring up topics that matter to you, see your friends or simply be yourself is not ok. If your partner is making you feel nervous or like walking on eggshells, it could be a red flag that it is time to walk away. You deserve to wake up everyday and feel happy, do not let anyone tell you otherwise.
🚩Control
It’s one thing having a laugh about your partner always wanting to drive or decide where to go for dinner, there is a point where control is not acceptable. If you feel unable to pursue the things you love, be that a career path, hanging out with family and friends or having time to yourself this is not healthy. Partner control can develop over time and there is a point where control comes out of control. If you are being controlled by your partner, there is no need to play small and pretend it’s not happening. You deserve to find a way out and feel free.
🚩Mental & Physical Abuse
Often these two go hand in hand. If your partner is putting you down, shouting at you or making you feel afraid this mental abuse can break you apart as a person. Physical abuse can start with something that is easily brushed off like a small push or blocking your path when trying to leave an argument, none of this is ok. If you are experiencing mental or physical abuse from your partner, finding a safe way to leave the relationship is vital for your future happiness.
How Can You Exit A Toxic Relationship?
When a toxic relationship has reached boiling point there are only two options. Either you decide to work through it, together or you leave.
Both of these options require help. If you feel there is hope you can save and get your relationship back on track, couples therapy and communication are key. They are experienced in all kinds of relationship trauma and may be able to help you resolve the behaviours that are driving you apart. If you feel your relationship has gone beyond that point, it is time to walk away. If you feel your partner is not going to accept the break up, having family and friends around you is vital. It may be best to move out of a joint property to give you space and comfort. If you are afraid of how to leave, speaking to a lawyer can help give you the support to get the right protection in place so you feel safe and free to move on.
The Wrap Up
Everyone deserves to feel free, happy and able to be themselves in a relationship. From excessive jealousy, control to mental and physical abuse — any of these behaviours are red flags of a toxic relationship that is causing you more harm than good. To leave safely, it is best to seek help and support from family, friends and experienced professionals. If you feel the relationship can not be saved via counselling and communication then it is time to close the door, heal and find the path to real happiness.
Waterstone Legal, one of the most compassionate, best human right law firms in London are a call away to support anyone looking to exit a toxic relationship. Just say the word DAFFODIL to get a free consultation to take the next steps to move forward.