Being in a healthy relationship can bring wonderful benefits to your life – love, support, friendship, romance, affection, someone to talk to about your day and how you’re feeling.
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However, there are times when some of us may find ourselves in relationships that may have started off well but have since changed.Â
It can be difficult to pinpoint exactly when it happens (unless it’s a very obvious event or situation) but it’s important to recognise the ‘red flags’ and move on as soon as you can.Â
A red flag in a relationship is a warning sign that certain traits or behaviour – even one-off occurrences – could become damaging or toxic overtime.
Here are some examples of relationships red flags that everyone should be aware of. There is a problem if the other person:Â
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- Acts controlling or possessive of you
- Uses alcohol or drugs as an excuse for harmful behaviour
- Embarrasses or humiliates you either in private or in public
- Yells, shouts or throws things either at you or near you
- Consistently goes back on promises they made
- Plays mind games or makes you doubt yourself (gaslighting)
- Pressures you for sex
- Threatens to hurt or kill themselves if you leave
- Makes all your decisions for the two of you
- Tries to alienate you from your family and/or friends
- Frequently gets jealous or accuses you of cheating
- Grabs, pushes or physically hurts you
- Makes you afraid to be alone with them
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If you are in a relationship that you are finding hard to leave, Childline is always here to listen and support you. Call 1800 66 66 66, text 50101 or use live chat on childline.ie.Â
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