Learn how toxic relationships affect the mental health of an individual. Explore the best and most effective ways to heal it for better health and mental well-being.
Introduction:
When we talk about a healthy lifestyle, it’s not just about physical health. Mental health is as crucial as physical health. We are well aware of the factors that can affect our physical wellbeing but have you ever wondered which thing deteriorates our mental health the most? Toxic relationships have a deep impact on our mental health which can leave us feeling drained, anxious, and depressed. These could be any relationship such as romantic, family, or even professional.
Let’s find out what toxic relationships are and how they can affect mental health.
What is a toxic relationship?
A toxic relationship is a relationship described as continuous emotional, physical, or psychological abuse. In toxic relationships, there is a power imbalance, with one partner getting control and manipulation over the other. Toxic relationships can be in any relation such as in husband/wife, among siblings, parents/kids, and even professionals. They can have severe negative impacts on mental and emotional well-being.
How toxic relationships affect mental health
The effects of toxic relationships on mental health are very serious and long-lasting. Some common symptoms include:
– Anxiety and Depression:
The constant stress and tension of a toxic relationship can cause anxiety and depression leaving a person sad and disturbed all the time.
– Low Self-Esteem:
The most negative effect of Toxic relationships on mental health is that the manipulators make their victims feel worthless, foolish, or unattractive. This low self-esteem can lead the victim to even end his life.
– Trauma:
Toxic relationships can cause serious trauma to victims. They can have feelings of fear; loss of hope, continuous disappointment, hypervigilance, and a constant sense of being “on edge.”
– Physical Symptoms:
The stress of a toxic relationship can also affect physical health as well as mental health. If the person is under stress and anxiety for a long time it can lead to headaches, stomach problems, and sleep disturbances.
Why We Stay in Toxic Relationships
Despite the terrible impacts of toxic relationships on our mental health, still many of us stay in these relationships for far too long. There are certain reasons for this, including:
Fear of Being Alone:
Many people stay in toxic relationships because they have a fear of being alone or starting over a new relationship.
Lack of Self-Worth:
Toxic partners develop low self-esteem in their partners so they consider themselves worthless and unlovable. So they believe no one needs them. That’s why they stay in the same toxic relationship.
Trauma Bonding:
In some cases, victims of toxic relationships experience trauma bonding. Their mental health deteriorates to such an extent that they become emotionally attached to their abuser and don’t want to leave them.
Ways to Heal from a Toxic Relationship
Healing from a toxic relationship takes time and patience but continuous effort and support from loved ones can make this process easy. Here are some ways to start the healing process:
Bring yourself out of the toxic relationship:
Firstly, end your toxic relationship. Keep yourself away from manipulators. It’s better to end a relationship rather than live in an abusive environment.
Seek Support:
Reach out to friends and family for emotional support. Enjoy time with those who boost your self-esteem.
Practice Self-Care:
Start loving yourself. No one can take care of you more than yourself. Take care of your physical and emotional needs. Get enough sleep, eat healthy foods, and engage in activities that bring you joy.
Set Boundaries:
If you cannot end your toxic relationship then must establish clear boundaries with your toxic partner or family member to protect yourself from more mental and physical harm and never allow the person to cross those boundaries.
Seek Professional Help:
To get a better cure for the negative effects of toxic relationships on mental health seek the help of a therapist or counselor who can provide you with guidance and support.
Focus on Personal Growth:
Work on yourself. Develop healthy habits .Keep yourself busy either in any job or any hobby you like the most. Make new friends. Travel a lot and explore new things in life. Cultivate a positive mindset to bring you out from the negative effects of toxic relationships.
Conclusion
Though toxic relationships have a disturbing impact on mental health causing anxiety and depression, efforts and support can bring you out of the trauma. You and your physical and mental health come first. Start giving priority to yourself. Make sure you deserve to be treated with love, respect, and kindness. Don’t let toxic relationships ruin your mental health, develop a positive mindset and move forward with your life.
Faqs
1 Can a toxic relationship also affect physical health?
A- Yes, a toxic relationship can harm physical health such as headaches, stomach problems, muscle tension, lack of sleep, and a weakened immune system.
2- Can I get online help for the mental health effects of a toxic relationship?
A- Yes there are many online platforms where you can seek help from a mental health professional, therapist, or counselor for toxic relationships.
3-Can a toxic relationship lead to depression?
A: Yes, a toxic relationship can lead to depression, sadness, hopelessness, and despair.
