Recognizing And Responding To Toxic Relationships

 

Toxic relationships have the potential of showing up in all areas of our life including work, social, and romantic relationships and even within family systems. Learn how to recognize signs of toxic relationships and tools to help you navigate through.

In this episode we talk about:

Potential Signs of Toxic Relationships

• Blaming and accusing
• Put downs or name calling
• Jealousy
• Making excuses or justifying behaviors of the other person
• Excessive gossip
• Putting you down to make themselves look better
• Feeling bad about yourself when you are this person
• Feeling like you’re always, “cleaning of their mess”

Areas of Life where Toxic Relationships Can Show Up

• Relationship with supervisors or co-workers (if you are struggling with poor management, check out our previous episodes Shitty Bosses and To get or Not to get the F*** out of Dodge)
• Social and peer relationships
• Relationships with immediate or extended family

Ways to Respond to Toxic Relationships

• Practice being assertive
• Set boundaries by communicating what’s okay with you and what’s not okay with you
• If possible, create space or distance
• Take responsibility for your part, but don’t take responsibility for other people’s feelings, situations, or circumstances that you are not responsible for

Abusive relationships can be toxic, but toxic relationship are not necessarily abusive.

• If you are worried about your safety or think you may be in an abusive relationship visit thehotline.org for Domestic Violence Support

 

Resources mentioned:

We’ve pulled together any resources mentioned in this episode and put together some links:

National Domestic Violence Hotline

http://www.thehotline.org/

1-800-799-7233

 

Thank you for allowing us into your lives and helping us make mental health relatable and a part of your everyday conversation! For more information or to access all episodes visit TherapistsUncut.com.

 

What is the Therapists Uncut Podcast:

The Therapists Uncut Podcast is a light-hearted, informative self-help podcast for grown-ups. It is hosted by off-the-clock therapists hoping to validate your experiences, normalize therapy and therapists, and help you prioritize your mental health.

Who are the Therapists Uncut Podcast Co-Hosts:

Nikki Young is co-host of Therapists Uncut and a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist. Nikki keeps it personable and professional. Yet, she always manages to keep the Therapists Uncut family and followers laughing. You may find her squirreling through topics, stories, or jokes, and all in good fun. Don't worry because someone will bring her back around to the conversation. Nikki is a licensed marriage and family therapist in her private practice located in Modesto, CA, and she is also a Crisis Junkie at heart. In addition to being co-owner of a group private practice, she is also a crisis clinician responding to local mental health crisis and emergencies. Learn more about Nikki at catalystcounselinginc.com

Alyssa Najera is co-host of Therapists Uncut and a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. Alyssa is typically calm and composed on most days, but often has difficulty containing her excitement about the little things in life. She loves to laugh, spread positivity, and is often caught with a smile on her face. Alyssa is also a Child Welfare Services social worker and supervisor alumni, previous child sexual abuse forensic i