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How Can You Spot and Avoid These 5 Types of Toxic Relationships?

Toxic relationships can present themselves in different ways. Here's how to identify and avoid them.

By Sara Novak
Jun 27, 2023 2:45 PMJun 27, 2023 2:53 PM
Fragile relationship failure
(Credit:VectorMine/Shutterstock)

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The content of this article may be triggering. Reader's discretion is advised.


Most of us have experienced some type of toxic relationship. Maybe it's a partner, friend or family member — but no matter who they are, whenever we're around them, we're left feeling like less than our best selves.

Research has shown that the quality of our relationships also impacts our physical health. Rosie Shrout, an assistant professor in human development and family science at Purdue University, says that toxic relationships can cause negative cardiovascular events, increase levels of cortisol, decrease immune response and increase inflammation in the body. Ultimately, a toxic relationship is stressful on the body and mind.

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