Dating in the modern epoch is very likely more dynamic than it has ever been. Amidst the whirlwind of matchmaking apps and social events, individuals often end up mismatched, potentially leading to a dreaded “toxic relationship.”
Unfortunately, toxic relationships come in myriad shapes and sizes. It’s also worth noting that “toxic” has become a buzzword on social media, leading people to label normal relationship conflicts as toxic. There is no foolproof method to spot the the real thing, but as Reddit kindly offers, people in them share their personal experiences about it a-plenty. Most importantly, if you aren’t comfortable in a relationship or it makes you feel bad regularly, that’s something to make a note of.
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There’s more information and expertise out there on these topics than ever before, so let’s remain ignorant no longer. After all, the year is 2025 and we are prioritizing health & wellness. Wondering if you’re in a toxic relationship? Here are some indicators to be on the lookout for.
Signs of a Toxic Relationship
Dating & beauty coach Elsa Moreck recommends several traits to look out for that will help you avoid toxic romantic environments, explaining to PLAYBOY that “if you’re avoiding friends, ditching hobbies, and losing your spark [in a relationship]—that’s not a healthy compromise.”
Elsa continues by stating, “That’s a major red flag. Too many people mistake this for ‘strength,’ but healthy relationships don’t drain you like that. So if you’re feeling increasingly anxious and disconnected from what matters to you, that’s when you start to step into toxic territory.”
Sex therapist & author Zoë Ligon also shared her thoughts on spotting a toxic relationship. Ligon did well to specify that “there is a difference between a relationship where there is an incompatibility or minor conflict versus a relationship where there is an unhealthy dynamic that causes emotional and/or physical harm—a ‘toxic’ relationship is generally used to refer to the latter.”
Ligon went on to say, “Some signs of a toxic or abusive relationship are feeling controlled or manipulated, feeling isolated, and feeling like you’re always walking on eggshells around your partner due to unpredictable verbal and/or physical abuse.”
Something to Keep in Mind
Not all contentious relationships should be considered “toxic,” but ones involving partner manipulation and isolation absolutely are. It is vital to identify these traits early, as people tend to gradually apply toxic behaviors compared to right up front.
Realization is only part of the battle as well. Due to the aforementioned manipulation and isolation, these dynamics are often difficult to break. Ligon also told PLAYBOY, “Even if it takes a bit of time, it’s okay. Many people struggle to leave toxic and abusive relationships even when they know they want out.”
In other words, if you believe you may be in a toxic relationship and don’t feel ready to leave yet, it’s okay. Be kind to yourself, stay diligent and aware of your resources, and remember that it’s okay to draw boundaries.
Find more relationship stories here.