Toxic Friends: Unhealthy Relationships

If you find yourself around someone who makes you feel uncomfortable or unhappy and constantly creates conflict in your life, you might be dealing with a toxic individual. These individuals possess a knack for exhibiting negative behaviors that damage relationships, breed tension, and leave others feeling drained. Often, toxic people harbor deep-seated issues and struggle with significant stress levels. In some cases, they may even suffer from personality disorders.

6 Signs You’re Encountering a Toxic Person

1. They manipulate you into doing what you don’t want to do.
2. You’re left perplexed by their behavior.
3. They never apologize for their actions.
4. You feel the need to protect yourself when around them.
5. They make you feel like you’re a terrible person.
6. They portray you as the epitome of evil.

Characteristics of Toxic Individuals

• Unpredictable: While normal individuals experience fluctuating moods, toxic people exhibit extreme unpredictability. They may break promises, leaving you unsure of what to expect next.
• Dramatic: Toxic individuals constantly engage in drama. They thrive on emotional turmoil and create conflicts, often observing the ensuing chaos. Their toxicity stems from instability and an inability to maintain healthy relationships.
• Disrespectful of Others’ Privacy: They disregard your time and needs. Healthy relationships are built on mutual trust and respect for personal boundaries, qualities that toxic individuals lack.
• Manipulative: They’ll employ any means necessary to achieve their desires, including lying, twisting the truth, exaggerating minor issues, and selectively disclosing information to influence your actions. Their sole focus is on fulfilling their own needs, regardless of the consequences for others.
• Exhibit Substance Abuse: Some toxic individuals engage in substance abuse, such as drug or alcohol consumption. Not only do they harm others, but they often self-destruct as well.

Dealing with Toxic People

• Confront Their Toxic Behavior: Immediately address their toxic actions, such as lying or breaking promises. Express your disapproval to demonstrate your concern and provide them with an opportunity to apologize or explain their conduct.
• Establish Clear Boundaries: If a toxic individual remains in your life, clearly define boundaries. For instance, if they become abusive while intoxicated, inform them you’ll cease all interactions until they regain control. Make it clear that you won’t tolerate dramatic or disrespectful behavior. Avoid spending time with them if they refuse to change. If these measures prove ineffective, distance yourself from these individuals and prioritize your well-being.

Remember: Encountering toxic people is a common experience. However, you have the right to choose the company you keep. If a toxic individual is causing unhappiness and lowering your self-esteem, eliminate them from your life for the sake of your mental health and overall well-being.

Nattapach Lamliangpon, M.D.
Adult Psychiatrist