Why you can (and should) break ties with toxic relatives

14.04.2018

Everything said correctly!

Unfortunately, there is nothing heavier and more painful than breaking off relations with a family member. It is believed that family ties should be the strongest in our lives. It`s no surprise that when we cut them, wounds open up.

No one expects relatives to cause such strong pain. On the contrary, we expect support from loved ones. However, some people are very toxic by nature, and there`s nothing you can do about it. Therefore, it`s better to distance yourself from them. To avoid psychological, physical, and emotional traumas, sometimes it`s better to put yourself first. Here`s how you can tell you`re dealing with a toxic relative.

Continuation of the article

Photo: psychologicalscience.org

1. They constantly condemn you.

Constructive criticism is good and useful. But constant condemnation can seriously harm self-esteem. Such a relative will always find something to nitpick. No matter what you do, no matter how hard you try, they will still criticize and humiliate you. You need to run from such a person as fast as your legs can carry you.

2. They crave drama.

Suppose you decided to just discuss your problems and share your experiences with a family member you trust. But the next day it becomes known that they have betrayed you. Now your secrets are known to the whole family.
Why? Because they felt like it! Now they tease you with it. This is betrayal at the highest level. No matter how close you were before, now even the slightest trust between you is destroyed.

Photo: kockamodrosti.si

3. Today they praise you, but tomorrow they insult you.

At first, your relative behaves politely, decently, restrained, and caring, but then insults you with the worst words. Their goal is to lull your vigilance and lure you into a trap.

They simply can`t stand it when you ignore them. Therefore, they are ready for anything to control you. And they always use manipulation.

4. They show up when they need something.

A toxic relative shows up only when they need something from you. Usually, it`s moral support or consolation.
But as soon as they get what they want, they immediately forget about your existence. And when you need their help, you can`t count on it...

5. They never admit their mistakes.

A toxic relative never admits they were wrong, even if there are many witnesses. Usually, such people use manipulative techniques to confuse their victim and make them doubt their memory, perception, or even mental health.

In this way, they always convince you that they are not to blame for anything.

If you have a relative who fits this description, most likely they are a toxic personality. After all, communicating with them will badly affect your condition and mental health.

Therefore, it`s better to stay away from such people. It`s better to completely break off relations with them. It may not be easy: after all, relatives. But afterward, you will feel free and happy! Do you know of such cases?