Article written by Jennifer Scott at spiritfinder.org for True Health CFM
A healthy romantic relationship can make you feel as if you are on top of the world, but when a relationship is going poorly, it can take a significant toll on your overall health. It can be difficult to know when to walk away from a relationship that isn't going well, but sometimes some self-discipline and sacrifice are needed to regain your health. How does a bad relationship impact your health and how do you know it's time to make a change?
Unhealthy relationships take a toll physically and mentally
The University of Minnesota's Health Talk details that healthy relationships can reduce stress and improve our health. However, unhealthy relationships can lead to higher blood pressure, spur depression and emotional issues, and even create a weakened immune system. Every relationship has its ups and downs, so at times, it can be difficult to determine when it is time to end a partnership. Even a bad partnership can feel comfortable sometimes, so it takes some self-reflection and sacrifice to make a change.
The University of Washington Hall Health Center shares some of the key components that signal that a relationship may have become unhealthy. If you feel pressured to change for your partner, or feel as if you need to stop doing activities you used to enjoy or stop seeing family or friends, there may be a problem. It is not uncommon for addictions to come into play with unhealthy relationships, whether it be in the form of alcohol or drug use clouding decision-
making, or an addiction developing in relation to the other person or the need to be together. If your partner is manipulative and controlling, things tend to get explosive or violent, or there is a lack of equality, you may need to take stock and prepare for a change.
Reasons for staying in bad relationships vary, and sacrifices may be necessary
People stay in bad relationships for many reasons, despite the toll these partnerships can take on one's health. eHarmony details that some may stick around because there are children involved, or finances may make it difficult to separate. Low self-esteem often develops in volatile relationships, so you may be left feeling as if your current partner is the best you can do. Another common obstacle is that some people become afraid of being alone, or they may think that a bad relationship where you know what to expect is better than the unknown.
When you realize that your relationship is negatively impacting your overall health, it is time to make a plan, consider what sacrifices need to be made, and scrounge together some self-discipline to make a change and stick with it. Madame Noire suggests that you make sure that you come to terms with the issues in the relationship and make a clear choice to end it. Once you have realized that you need to break things off, make a plan and move forward.
Focus on rebuilding your healthy self after a split
Once you are single again, focus on your physical and mental health and put together a plan to ensure that you regain your strength. Tackle activities that you may have been neglecting, whether that means trying a new fitness activity, experimenting with new, healthy recipes, reading some books, or reconnecting with friends. Breakups can be emotionally draining, even if you know they are necessary. This is the time to focus on your own strengths and positive attributes and embrace the healthier life you are ready to lead.
Unhealthy romantic relationships have a significant impact on one's mental and physical health. Even when it’s clear that it is time to make a change, moving ahead can be difficult and require both sacrifices and a fair amount of self-discipline. Once the split is behind you, focus on ways you can build up both your mental and physical health. Life may feel difficult in the short-term, but ending an unhealthy relationship will bring many long-term benefits.
[Image via Pixabay]
