How to Spot Toxic Relationships

A toxic or abusive relationship is detrimental to your mental and physical health as well as your lasting sobriety. That’s why experts almost universally advise against dating and/or jumping into a new relationship in the first year of sobriety.  

Once you’re ready to date, however, it’s important to be discerning. Taking a good, honest look at your dating history is often the first step. This will help you determine any unhealthy past romantic trends so you can make better judgment calls when it comes to future dating prospects. Ultimately, the goal is for you to learn to recognize a healthy relationship and a person who can potentially become a positive part of your new sober life. 

Some red flags to watch out for while dating include: 

Your partner… 

• Is emotionally or physical abusive
• Doesn’t offer his/her emotional support 
• Makes you feel inferior or ignorant
• Frequently lies to you (both big and small fibs) 
• Makes you feel unhappy or sad
• Is always in control and you’ve become frightened to speak up
• Never compromises or gives in
• Wants you for sex and nothing else
• Pressures you to drink or do drugs or participate in unethical or illegal behavior
• Tends to disappear for periods of time without any explanation
• Never says thank you or shows appreciation for you and all that you do
• Always criticizes or belittles you
• Tries to make you feel jealous

Let Our Mentors Guide You

Even with the recovery skills you’ve gained, you may feel uneasy when it comes to relationships. One of the advantages of sober living at HAUS is having fellow residents and a wonderful support team to help you stay clean and respect yourself while you transition from treatment to “normal life.” To learn more about our mentoring services, call today: 888-551-4715.