6 signs your relationship is turning toxic

Every relationship has its highs and lows. Not every day looks like sunshine and rainbows. But there is a stark difference between what’s healthy and what’s not. While disagreements and occasional conflicts are a normal part of any partnership, if its becoming a pattern, you have to look closer. More often than not, people tend to overlook red flags and don’t realise until it turns toxic. Because toxic traits don’t exactly present themselves in the loudest way. However, recognising them early is crucial. Here are seven signs you should not ignore.

Do you find yourself calculating every step and every word before you speak? If you constantly feel the need to think twice, there is a problem. A healthy relationship should be a safe space. You should be able to share your needs, thoughts, and questions without editing them in your head.

Respect comes first in any relationship. Love can follow. Respect is non-negotiable in a relationship. If you don’t feel respected in a relationship, then there is not much future. Disrespect doesn't always mean shouting; it can show up as dismissing your opinions, belittling your achievements, or making decisions for you without consulting you. If the boundaries are ignored, and your feelings are disregarded, that still counts as disrespect.

Are you being blamed for your reaction to your partner's unjust action? Well, that's exactly how gaslighting works. It is a form of emotional manipulation. Sometimes it hides in plain sight. Your partner denies events you clearly remember, twists your words, or makes you feel irrational for having a perfectly reasonable reaction! What is the result of all these? You start doubting your instincts. You will find yourselves apologising for things that were never your fault. This is a serious red flag.

One moment, your partner is all lovey-dovey, and the next, the air between you suddenly feels cold and distant. This trait speaks for itself. There is no stability in such relationships. The worst part is that you will keep wondering whether this person loves you or not. That is not exactly a positive feeling to have.

Do you feel losing yourself while being in this relationship? Your hobbies, your friendships, your goals, your sense of humour - all lost? Well, then it's time to look closer. A healthy relationship and a partner will never dim your light. Only the bad ones steal your thunder. Remember, the longest relationship you will ever have is with you. And you don’t want to lose yourselves, chasing someone else. That’s not really worth it.

Don’t walk, but run, if your partner has double standards. Because that is a toxic trait, altogether. If rules apply to you, not your partner, it's a walking red flag. They can be honest to the point of cruelty, but your candour is considered an attack. Sounds familiar? Buddy, it’s time to reanalyse your relationship. Because double standards are not exactly a quality that aligns with truth!