Relationships are not always butterflies and rainbows. They demand time, effort, and attention. However, remaining in a toxic relationship is the opposite of healthy and can bring more harm than good.
Any relationship comes with its little issues, which have the potential to turn into problems. But although these minor problems might be a bit concerning, ending a relationship over these minor issues can prove that one is not ready for a relationship. To maintain a long-lasting relationship, calling it quits over something small is not the smartest choice.
A relationship is like an investment because one is investing time into someone else. However, if one recognizes that minor issues have the potential to make the relationship toxic over time, then it may just be a good idea to end it.
But as we all know, it’s not easy to start, be in, or end a relationship. And sometimes it gets complicated. Some people do exhibit an inability to be decisive and either remain in or end a relationship. This results in a classic on/off relationship.
An on/off relationship is a relationship that involves multiple break-ups and make-ups. This pattern may develop due to the unique history, life challenges, and uncertainty that the couple shares, or perhaps something akin to realizing the grass is not greener on the other side. According to the Vennum et al. (2013), 30 to 60 percent of young adults have experienced an on/off relationship. While some couples overcome the humps of an on/off relationship and eventually achieve something more stable, most relationships don’t. These relationships can be toxic for many reasons, and here are the reasons why.
Toxic for mental health
The destructive push-pull dynamic of an on/off relationship can trigger insecurities and diminish one’s self-worth. It causes one to question their suitability for a stable relationship. This questioning can lead to mental health issues like long-term anxiety and depression.
Lack of communication
Communication is necessary so that both partners can meet each other’s needs and be understanding of one another. Without communication, a couple will face issues seeing eye to eye, which results in serious problems occurring.
Lack of stability
The constant break-up and make-up can lead to uncertainty. Besides communication, stability is also what helps keep a relationship healthy. These two things are necessary for a relationship to be healthy and can prevent an unstable atmosphere for both partners.
Consistent problems
There’s nothing new under the sun about relationships having problems. Everyone will experience issues at one point throughout their relationship. On/off relationships usually tend to have too many dilemmas. Respecting each other’s personalities is essential, and addressing issues is also crucial. When these two are not addressed and catered to, this can cause problems to arise.
Having difficulty in letting go
Letting go is never easy, no matter what it is. However, it’s a step one must take to move on. The aforementioned is an issue on/off couples tend to face. What keeps an on/off relationship going is a couple holding onto the good part of their relationship and continuously overlooking how toxic their relationship is. Instead of realizing it’s best to remain separate, some partners will jump on the rollercoaster of tumultuous ups and downs.
Although no relationship is perfect, a toxic relationship is something that no one should ever be in. Everyone deserves love, but healthy love is what one should strive for.