Maya Nehru Therapy

It's Wednesday. The week is going slowly and somehow this year is moving by so fast. You might still be in a funk as we continue to live through this pandemic. It might be easy to forget the simple things that you still have control over, & the things that can actually do a lot for your mental health without spending lots of money or time on them. Do you make it a priority to practice these tips? . . For more save-worthy affirmations, encouragement, & all-things-mental-millennial mental health, follow me @wellness_therapy_by_maya

A toxic relationship, by definition, is a relationship characterized by behaviors on the part of the toxic partner that are emotionally and, not infrequently, physically damaging to their partner. While a healthy relationship contributes to our self-esteem and emotional energy, a toxic relationship damages self-esteem and drains energy. A healthy relationship involves mutual caring, respect, and compassion, an interest in our partner’s welfare and growth, an ability to share... control and decision-making, in short, a shared desire for each other’s happiness. A healthy relationship is a safe relationship, a relationship where we can be ourselves without fear, a place where we feel comfortable and secure. A toxic relationship, on the other hand, is not a safe place. A toxic relationship is characterized by insecurity, self-centeredness, dominance, control. [...] To say a toxic relationship is dysfunctional is, at best, an understatement. - Thomas L. Cory, Ph.D. See more

What types of behaviors constitute a toxic or emotionally abusive relationship? Here are some red flags to look out for: Lack of trust - this goes both ways. If your partner doesn't trust you (especially when there is no evidence for it) or if you don't trust your partner, your relationship is already on the rocks. Lack of trust can erode even the most magical of romances. Lack of honesty & lack of communication. Excessive jealousy & excessive comp...arisons. This is oftentimes a sign of a toxic relationship as it instills serious self-doubt & breaks down your self-esteem tremendously. Excessive conflicts. Conflict is unavoidable & it is actually healthy in relationships. Moving through conflict helps you grow with your partner. It does become troublesome though when it becomes the norm - when you can't recall a moment of peace or love, and when the conflict leads to truly hurtful verbal or physical attacks. Lack of intimacy. Whether it's physical intimacy or emotional intimacy, feeling disconnected from your partner can be worked through but can also be a red-flag when it becomes the norm, especially when the effort to increase intimacy feels very one-sided. This can often lead to feelings of rejection & THAT is never fun. . . Is there any other red flag you would add to this list? See more