Are Toxic Relationships Causing You Stress?

January 04, 2018

Let’s face it. Relationships take time and energy. They can be a source of great joy or high stress.

All of us reach a point in our lives where we have to evaluate our relationships, and decide whether or not they are healthy for us.

A relationship can become toxic, a source of stress, an energy drain, or even abusive.

Our relationships affect our mental, physical, and spiritual health, both negatively and positively.

Releasing or fixing a toxic relationship can be an important starting point for renewed health, energy, and a happier life.

Toxic relationships occur between spouses, family members, and even close friends. Do you have a toxic relationship that you need to fix or release?

Questions to Ask Yourself

What does the relationship provide you?

Write down the pros and cons of having the person in your life. If it looks like you’re the only giver in the relationship, it’s time to re-evaluate it and establish healthy boundaries.

Are you in an unhappy relationship to avoid being alone or for other reasons?

People often stay in toxic relationships to avoid working on their own issues. Having low self-esteem is a primary reason why people don’t leave toxic relationships.

Do you feel a sense of dread, anxiety or panic when dealing with the other person?

Your body reacts physically to people who drain your energy and cause stress.

If you notice anxiety or other symptoms building up around a person, you probably need to release or fix your relationship with them.

Is the other person cruel or abusive to you in any way?

Being in a relationship with someone who is abusive (even a family member) is highly toxic.

Seek out professional help right away if you’re being abused.

Remove yourself from any abusive situation for your safety and well-being. People who hurt you in this way don’t deserve your time or love!

How To Fix or Release Toxic Relationships

This is much easier said than done, especially when your feelings are involved. Yet, it’s important to be honest with yourself and find solutions to relationships that are toxic.

Make good choices.

Being in any relationship (even with a family member) is a choice. If your relationship is toxic, you’re free to walk away. Take space for yourself.

You can also unfriend or unfollow the person on social media if it’s a source of stress. Choose to spend time with people that support and encourage you while you make positive changes.

Own your part of the problem and get closer to the solution.

Being codependent or trying to “fix” the other person is part of the problem. You cannot fix another person. It’s up to them to manage their lives and make healthy decisions.

Don’t play the victim role. Learn to take care of your own needs rather than blaming the other person for your circumstances or feelings.

Build your life up outside of the relationship.

Try out a new hobby. Spend time doing artwork, journaling, or something else that you love.

Gain perspective and try to look at the situation from a neutral place. Ask yourself if you would want a close friend or family member to be involved in a similar relationship.

If not, it may be time to let it go or seek outside help to fix it.

Communicate in a healthy way.

If you want to try to fix the relationship, learn to communicate effectively. Share how you’re feeling in a non-confrontational way. Remember to be clear on your boundaries.

Listen to other person’s thoughts, too. They may have pent up feelings or resentments to share.

Working with a counselor is the best choice, especially if the relationship is volatile and feelings are charged.

Get support when you need it.

If your relationship is with someone who is sick with alcoholism, drug addiction, or other illness, join a support group or work with a one-on-one counselor to get advice on what your best steps are.

Take advantage of your support options to move forward in a healthy way. You need help, too!

Let go.

If you feel like you’ve tried everything and are getting nowhere, it may be time to release the relationship. Know that it’s a process and will take time to heal.

Visualize yourself surrounded by love. Closing the door on a toxic relationship opens up a world of possibilities for a new, happier life.

Say No To Toxic Relationships and Yes To Yourself.

There comes a time in our lives where we need to put ourselves first. While all relationships experience normal ebbs and flows, a toxic relationship is a total energy drain.

Take steps to heal yourself. Build up your self-esteem through enriching activities. Reach out for support and guidance when you need it.

It’s important to put yourself first, especially if a relationship is no longer healthy or has run its course.

 

References:

Share:

---

Also in News