5 signs of a toxic relationship

When you watch the car crash relationships of celebrities unfold through reality TV, it’s easy to see where they’re going wrong. But when your own feelings and emotions are involved, it’s harder to see the wood for the trees. In the long run a bad relationship will make you miserable so it’s good to be wary of early warning signs.
1. Constant fighting
Some people see rows as the height of romantic passion and we constantly see celebs caught up in high profile dramas. Thriving on the ‘turbulence’ of a rocky relationship, many get addicted to the rollercoaster of highs and lows. In the long term these partnerships can be destructive, causing low self esteem and mental health problems such as depression. It’s natural for all couples to row occasionally, but if you’re at each other's throats every other day, it’s not a great sign.
2. Your friends and family don’t like him
If you want a real assessment of your relationship, ask trusted friends and family for their opinions. Even if your man isn’t their cup of tea, they should be able to tell if he’s good for you in the long term. When your friends and family are really hostile towards your boyfriend, there’s probably a pretty good reason. Ultimately it’s your decision but if you chat to them about it, you might see things from their perspective.
3. He puts you down
Teasing and banter in a relationship is great, but when a boyfriend is constantly putting you down for no reason, it can damage your self worth. Many women stay in emotionally abusive relationships because their partner has convinced them they don’t deserve better. This is never the case so if your man is belittling you, don’t stand for it.
4. You stop being honest
Whether you’re hiding things from your partner or you’re keeping secrets about the relationship from family, a lack of honesty shows things aren’t right. We’re not talking a few white lies about your boyfriend’s dodgy new haircut, but if you find yourself lying about important things, it’s time to be honest with yourself about the relationship.
5. Jealousy and possessive behaviour
It doesn’t matter if it’s you or your partner, jealous behaviour indicates a lack of trust in a relationship. Quickly turning even the best partnerships toxic, the green eyes monster if definitely one to be wary of. If you pick up on it quickly, jealousy can be dealt with, but if it’s been left to fester many couples find it causes an unmendable  rift.