How to tell if you are in a Toxic Relationship | 7 Signs of Relationship Toxicity

[@jeanetteyork2582]

1. A lot of arguing without resolution...A relationship without forgiveness 2. The toxic person wishes you were dead or gone...Sex lacks emotional component... 3. Unfounded accusations 4. Unhelpful personality and resentful treatment 5. Unhelpful communication style...badgering or aggressive behavior...refusal to recognize process or principles...nobody apologizes except you the victim 6. Excessive fantasy....what would it be like if I escaped or got another partner? 7. Manipulation...spending money to hurt partner...silent treatment... isolating behavior esp. where counseling is concerned... Thank you Dr G

[@cathyt144]

Jeanette York ive been in unhealthy relationships with men my entire adult life. beginning with my first marriage at age 18which lasted 17yrs. he was an abusive alcoholic. i managed to finally get enough courage to get me and my 2young children away from the crazy fool. im 58yrs old and ive only had 1 relationship(my late husband)that wasnt toxic/abusive. i stopped dating 4yrs ago because of being hurt so many times. i dont evn trust my own judgement anymore because im drawn to those type men for some unhealthy reason. all of the points you made i can personally relate to. its a sad and scary life.

[@andreasleonlandgren3092]

Cathy T you can learn to find healthy relationships! You are great.

[@sumarew]

#2 is so so sad, my God, no one should go through this

[@TheTourlous]

Exactly what I experienced the past 3 months.

[@provethioaltum3276]

Yea this is my relationship right now she says i make her jealous.. I don't think its that. I beleive since her father died she has some psychological deffect from that and her upbringing.. Im hoping it will get better. I have to be patient.

[@india239]

I have been married to a wonderful man for sixteen years. I’ve been in toxic relationships. Being older and somewhat wiser I would rather live alone than be with someone who is toxic

[@wolfafterdark]

Being happy alone is one of the most important things I learned to do as an adult. (Not truly alone. One must have a cat, lol.)

[@calgal7828]

Absolutely! I’ve never been lonely till I was married to the wrong person.

[@nitalowrey5021]

@@wolfafterdark I completely agree and I also have a cat. 🐈

[@lethaldream50]

i'm only 31 but i've been in enough serious, multiple-year relationships that turned toxic to completely agree at this point. bad experiences do make you wiser...as long as you get to live to be old enough to learn from it.

[@francesbernard2445]

Thanks for sharing because it gave me hope.

[@DanielDez]

I struggled to get out of a toxic marriage (I identified with about 90% of this video). Because I finally did get out, I am now dealing with the aftermath of divorce: financial, emotional, and logistical devastation. Do I regret it? Not even for a moment. I am alone now, but I have peace, and I have taken the situation as an opportunity to heal, learn, and change... hell, I even have a lot of hope for a happy future! What is the value of that? Thank you for this video Dr. Grande.

[@provethioaltum3276]

Ive been there so hope you are doing well life gets better🙂

[@JJ-xj5tc]

Dez - I hope you’re doing well now

[@ThangNguyen-kk1wh]

You do have much fortitude, l admire you. At 67yr old and after 16 yrs of chaotic hell, l feel inspired by yr attitude, Thanks.

[@ForzaTerra89]

Dez - I just got out and I’m devastated emotionally. I’ve escaped but broken my own heart

[@lorimiller4301]

@@ThangNguyen-kk1wh you might live to 100 yrs old. Still time for love and life and joy.

[@JusticeForNicholeAlloway]

I would love a video on how the perpetrator makes the victim look crazy or like the bad guy. How they bait and bait and bait, and when you finally stand up for yourself, they immediately try to take on the role of the victim.

[@rubberbiscuit99]

The name for the outsize reaction one can eventually have to repeated baiting is "reactive abuse."

[@GiveMeCoffee]

Isn't that 'gaslighting'?

[@ForzaTerra89]

Yeah that happened to me, some time has passed now and I’m like..,wow I was really far gone for something like that to work

[@marylamb7707]

@Madeline Monahan Lol

[@barbarawentzel6202]

They have the ability to convince others that you are wrong. Or wrong headed.

[@suekay677]

You really don’t know what trapped means until you have children with a narcissistic “partner”.

[@DrLuke49]

This also applies to having a sibling who is a narcissistic parent who then deliberately started a family WITH another narcissist

[@suekay677]

@@DrLuke49 eeeekk 😬

[@thevictorianedge5465]

I understand!!

[@meadowrae1491]

I am SO grateful that my ex husband got physically abusive with me. It's the only reason I was able to save my son from him.

[@mrmonkeybuns]

What about a partner with narcissistic children?

[@Estelle-Maureen]

Thinking my single life isn't so bad right about now...

[@ranevc]

Estelle A I assume you have a cat.

[@SweetBlackSistah]

Its not bad. Being alone isn't bad at all. Most times I enjoy, but it can be lonely.

[@Estelle-Maureen]

@@SweetBlackSistah they say when the right person comes along you will know it... Until then, I'm chillin and all good. I hope you are too :)

[@SweetBlackSistah]

@@Estelle-Maureen chile, Im not even expecting anything from anyone. My trust in humans is pretty much non-existent. I'm just living. 😊

[@Estelle-Maureen]

@@SweetBlackSistah sameness!

[@SweetBlackSistah]

With my last relationship, I was "hoodwinked" and realized I was trapped in a relationship with a narcissist with ASPD tendencies. I am now free from him crazy sadistic ass for over a year now. This has made me self reflect on WHY I KEEP GETTING INVOLVED WITH TOXIC PEOPLE. I had to rid of him and even family, and I do NOT feel guilty about this one iota. Its a shame I had to learn what self-love means at almost 46 years old. 😢 Thanks Doc! Another great video.

[@melindac3368]

I'm right there in that club with you. I don't seem to attract anyone except toxic people. I'll end up a hermit, and that's okay with me, as long as I have my pets.

[@veltonmeade1057]

You keep getting involved with them because there are just too many of them to avoid. I suppose we will never be able to avoid them until someone creates a mind-reading maching. Don't blame yourself.

[@toxicstatesofamerica1277]

@@veltonmeade1057 I agree 100%. I think the toxic density within the population has increased substantially over the past 20 years. Trust your gut...

[@DracBola]

Many Doctor and Therapist say we keep letting these kind of toxic relationship happening because we are codependent, people pleaser

[@d3sign3rmom]

@Natasha Grootjans aspd stands for antisocial personality disorder

[@JamminOnThe1]

I would add another sign of a toxic relationship is when one person is motivated to get into couples counseling, read about healthy relationships, and gain understanding what makes a relationship healthy while the other person is completely passive. Perhaps the passive person isn’t the most psychologically minded and tends to avoid personal insight. It just seems to me like being in a relationship is really about being vulnerable, Open, and mutual caretaking. When one person is avoidance of those important aspects, it certainly seems to create a toxic dynamic.

[@joywilliams4014]

I wonder if that is considered passive aggressive. Anyway, i had the same problem in my 17 years of marriage. I was always wanting to communicate and get professional help in order to make the relationship better/stronger, but my husband for some reason just kept dragging his feet. I don’t know why some people have trouble opening up or being vulnerable , but i feel it’s necessary in a relationship. But not to even try by getting some counseling just boggles my mind and makes you wonder what they are so afraid of or why they wouldn’t want to try to make things better. Especially when there are children involved. I will never understand that. Ever.

[@johnsmith-kc1sn]

@@joywilliams4014 because being vulnerable is not what a narcissist voluntarily does. If a narcissist goes to therapy they risk being called out; a professional might see through a lot of their manipulation if they debate too much. So they either lie and manipulate the therapist (and therefore achieve nothing of benefit from the session) or they go into a mostly passive role to try seem meek and vulnerable (in their mind) but without actually acknowledging their faults

[@Voning.]

100%

[@mrsimo7144]

I've just escaped a relationship like this. I've been in this for 13 years. My brain is fried. Thanks for the upload

[@thebeasters]

I can't even get out bed half the time. I know it's snarky comments and fighting. I've tried shutting up, fighting back, being logical and calm, avoiding all together. The fact is they will seek you out

[@mars9399]

@@thebeasters yeah, I can identify two people in my life that create toxic dynamics like these, they bring the toxic smog with them. I can always predict when things are about to go sour and I walk off immediately, and most of the time they chase after me to scream at me when I make my way to a safe space. I can't even run from it lmao, they scream so loud.

[@karenliseberg8122]

It took me years to recover, I understand what you mean about your brain being fried

[@janycebrown4071]

We all need to know our worth. We shouldn't settle for anyone who doesn't lift us up 🙂

[@lilitt14]

Yes! The fried brain. It's the reason we also stay longer in the relationship because we cannot think clearly.

[@melody5893]

SIlent treatment seems to be confused a lot, telling your partner you need a time out or to think before you talk about something is healthy, purposelly ignoring someone for whatever reason until it infuses some sort of reaction isn't

[@rockulikeahurricane]

True.... i kept thinking when i would hear about the silent treatment being a symptom. I don’t talk for a while after an argument but it’s because i have absolutely nothing to say.

[@Firegirl483]

@@rockulikeahurricane not talking isn't the same as silent treatment

[@rockulikeahurricane]

Zanillani very true

[@wolfafterdark]

@e [insert a big, loving, and understanding hug here] You deserve so much better than that, and as much as it hurts, it is wonderful that you have chosen to focus on yourself (it will feel freeing when the pain fades) and not be subjected to such oblivious abuses, which weaken the heart in more ways than one :(

[@wolfafterdark]

Dedicating myself to a cause has helped me a lot in discovering myself and healing, as I am helping others heal. I chose to do rescue work, I rehabilitate animals (usually only one or two at a time, as I can), most of whom are rescued from farm abuse. For one and a half months now, I've been rehabilitating two battery hens. Watching them discover freedom, and life's joys, for the first time, and overcoming mental and physical disorders and trauma, and building a trusting relationship with them where once there was only fear, is very emotional and inspiring. I've discovered things about myself I never would have had the chance to otherwise. And it's helped me really discover my worth. Just mine, outside of any romantic relationship. I highly recommend giving it a try.

[@Seashore0Sunset]

The Ex checked many of these boxes. Which clarifies a lot. Glad I've moved on.

[@Dreamskater100]

I'm so glad you did. Not many do sadly.

[@samanthapurdy2053]

I would get nauseous when my boyfriend would drink and start arguments. The physical feelings are very real

[@madeleine9907]

That is like my relation...he turns from nice to evil in 2 seconds...😰

[@Bunbunfunfun]

Currently stuck in a toxic relationship. And truth be known I have never had a “ normal” relationship. This was a good eye opener.

[@solitaireburton3740]

Know that feeling. I figured I would get attracted to guys who "need help". Nurturing side would play right into the narc looking for bait.

[@solitaireburton3740]

PLEASE TRY TO ESCAPE ASAP. I have been in lots of toxic relationships too. Thankfully survived them all. If you can't escape, please BE CAREFUL, AND TAKE CARE.

[@annoybot]

The ability to say *no* and still *be well* might be the core measure of Toxic Relationships. I'm just awakening to how much I have not been caring for myself. Realizing the most basic standards of my inherent value, and how I will allow others to treat me, brings to the forefront the *imperative* of *volluntary relationships* - in all public & private interactions.

[@andreasleonlandgren3092]

Travis Jordan great points took me a long time to implement.

[@meadowrae1491]

Wow. Yeah. Being able to say no is so important.

[@MrAllysonn]

Great point!!

[@Rahel8811]

The ex hit all marks wow. Thank you. I always would fantasize on escaping especially towards the end.

[@ranevc]

Rahel T Rocca Ha-ha-ha! You made my day.

[@carolconley5298]

Same here

[@smac1823]

I felt like i was in a cult and even going to home depot felt like a chance to be saved

[@bluedogfish2]

if your calling it a escape.......................its from a narc

[@solitaireburton3740]

I had decided........that's it. Had enough. Didn't even really understand narcissism etc just SICK OF BEING TREATED SO BADLY. Got home from a hospital stay and the bastard had died on me. I didn't even have the chance to throw him out!!!! DAMN!!!!!! ALIVE AND DEAD HE SCREWED WITH ME!!!!!! I started learning all this stuff afterwards.

[@lilolmecj]

Not being willing to admit when you are wrong, and apologize, is a very destructive habit.

[@christianpulisic7784]

Carole Just Carole,You look gorgeous 🌹🌹,hope you are not with a narc 😈!!

[@kingjadyn5669]

I have a huge issue with this and it scares me I don't want to be toxic to my partner... any tips on how to see when you are wrong in an argument?

[@isabellavalencia8026]

@@christianpulisic7784 🐱 🐟

[@tatyanafadden2005]

Yes, this is one of most painful topics- not even take little effort to say sorry or thank you! It seems so childish to pay attention to apologies and absolutely not even take it seriously. This ignorance to acknowledge your human pain and tears!

[@tatyanafadden2005]

@@kingjadyn5669 at least you have doubts and sensitivity- this means a lot!

[@surpingbutterfly]

Based on the title this is going to be a popular upload.

[@NenaSilva210]

I lived in a toxic marriage for almost 17 years. You have described almost everything I went through with my ex husband during that time. I tried so much to fix things by being patient and seeking counseling but nothing worked. I’ve been divorced and alone for 10 years and I do not date because I am so scared of going through the same again.

[@MrAllysonn]

Well, you get out of that mess. You're so brave. Now healing from it, learning about what is okay and what is not for me in a relationship with you.

[@sandrapisarski6597]

I was married 17 years to a borderline type narcissist, been divorced 15 years! This video describes so much. If you can afford to do Terri Coles programs, I recommend, if not or and look into Dr Ramani's program, hers is affordable $25 per month. I am happily married to my second husband and it is quiet wonderful to live within a healthy relationship ! Had to learn how to have boundaries for myself and speak up with my desires and needs. Still learning how to be a healthy partner myself.

[@anthonyramirez7272]

I really enjoyed this video, especially the fact that you brought signs that aren’t mentioned that much in other youtube videos like feeling physically sick and poor communication. Great video through and through :0)

[@janefinley-english9695]

Such a great video to help peeps in a bad relationship! Still enjoying my freedom the last 12 years after saying bye bye. Some people do not want to change. Thanks Dr. Grande. ✌🏽

[@audreyandrea460]

This was my entire "relationship" for 15 years that I could not get out of... He is still not out of my life, yet, although we stopped living together 2 years ago. He still contributes financially - pretty much controls that aspect. Actually hearing all of these points in a row has made me realize that now, at 39 years old, I don't think I want another romantic relationship, ever. I spent that long in a situation like that and had no idea it was toxic? I have c-ptsd, pretty isolated, and was raised in a family of abusive, criminal narcissists. At least I can start to protect myself, and others (since I think I must be pretty toxic)... while attending the therapy I plan to get as soon as possible.

[@jamiepentz4682]

Definitely described the same deal as me. Still stuck because of financial problems and kid's.

[@lylameri9082]

Probably a good idea, while you heal and process what you’ve been through. After I did that, my philosophy was, “I’m not going to let my ex steal one more day of love from me.” Remarried for a year now, to a loving and supportive man.

[@AnovaLisaDragonfly]

Glad that you stopped living together, but financial control still gives him a lot of power. It’s been two years since your comment. I hope you’re doing better. The more independent you can be from him and the family you mentioned, the more you’ll be able to protect yourself and control your own destiny.

[@tatyanafadden2005]

The same problem- you need a lot of energy to get out, financial fear, when you see all those homeless under brides and he knows it!

[@tatyanafadden2005]

@@lylameri9082 I have the same feelings, that he stilling each beautiful morning from me.

[@sallyatari6446]

Wow! Ty Dr Grande. I’ve been divorced for 20 years and listening to this video, articulated my marriage relationship. I had an ulcer in the end. When my mother died-I was 25 years old, my husband yelled at me when I came to tell him her diagnoses, “Don’t you know everyone’s going to die”? No empathy. He used to say, the best defense in an argument is a good offense. We were married 22 years. I didn’t believe I could survive if I left. But I did. I confess, I’m scared to get into another toxic relationship. I

[@christianpulisic7784]

sally ATARI,You are beautiful 🌹🌹🌺,I think you deserve better 🙏🙏🙏

[@jacqc1533]

Thank you for a brilliantly constructed narrative , deconstructing this tricky subject. When enmeshed in toxic relationships it is hard to pin point what is essentially wrong for the partner who is constantly kept off balance, on the back foot questioning themselves. But I do think the psychological and physiological damage to the person on the receiving end in toxic relationships such as you are so specifically describing cannot be underestimated, it can be irreversible without a lot of support & professional help. Also if the perpetrator is not willing to commit to change & take responsibility, it is undoubtedly better to leave particularly in the case of NPD.

[@joywilliams4014]

Hi Dream Big...Honestly this stuff should be taught in school. It’s astonishing that sooo many people, (good people), get into these destructive relationships. Man I could’ve really used this information fourth years ago. I have been divorced for 16 years from a 17 years marriage and still haven’t recovered from the emotional devastation. We actually are friends now, but I still harbor a lot of resentment from all the pain and damage it caused for me emotionally. I wish that he would allow for an honest conversation so I can purge all the hurt inside...but that was part of the problem...no quality communication. The sad part is I feel I can never get into another serious relationship until that happens for me. I realize I had self esteem/insecurity issues prior to my marriage, which I had therapy for but never were really resolved, but that relationship crippled me even more. This Dr. seems amazing...but seems to late for me. Idk. I don’t especially like being alone, but relationships seem too risky.

[@coreyanderson7424]

You are absolutely right. The damages that result, especially and specifically when someone was exposed to NPD, are many and substantial damages. And yes, professional help is often needed to address it and to facilitate health and healing. Good comment 👍

[@zalmalak2478]

when she yells"dont start!" everytime i try to express my lack of satisfaction about something....

[@terrapintravels3829]

Very frustrating!

[@terrapintravels3829]

@Sam Kelly read this book in the 90s

[@Magdalene777]

With narcissists there is also starting arguments as a diversion or to excuse bad behaviour, like picking a fight so they can leave the house to cheat. If the argument is being used for manipulation I find even if you try to diffuse it by taking their side, they will even start disagreeing with their original stance that you are agreeing with, just to make sure the argument escalates.

[@coreyanderson7424]

She sounds aweful. Just saying...

[@mariarivero9567]

Thank you for this balanced and helpful information - its so hard to see these red flags when we are "in love" with or bonded to a toxic person. Very helpful signs to look out for.

[@amybryant2638]

This will help so many people. My ex hit all 7 of these signs. He not only refuse to work on it, he doubled down and when from toxic to abuses other than emotional. There was no choice but to leave. I do agree with you that it can be changed IF both parties work on it. I don't understand how leaving being an option and not being the best idea. I'd be interested in clarification on that. Your videos very often give me other insights into things, so I'm more than willing to hear ya out on a lot of controversial statements.

[@TheJhansonfan]

I’m glad you were able to leave. My ex used to tell me that if I left he would and the very least get visitation and that one day he would not bring them back and he would disappear. This was pre internet and he wasn’t close to his family so I knew he would do it. I stayed for 26 years and haven’t been in a relationship since. I still have trouble believing that I’m good enough even though I have 3 grown children and 4 granddaughters that love me unconditionally. Sorry to pour my heart out to you I just was happy for you.

[@kimkilgore148]

@@TheJhansonfan I'm so happy you are able to have contact with your grown children and grandchildren, I wasn't that lucky my freedom came with a price,he told me on a text he would have my children hateing me before it was over and he did, I'm alone and by myself now,I escaped that horrific mess almost 5 years ago, but haven't spoken too my adult daughter's in over a year and half, my therapist keep telling me they will come around one day,but it maybe to late when they won't be able to see their mother at all, I've greived the loss of my daughter's and grandchildren,I no I'll never seem them ever again.

[@lenitaa7938]

@@kimkilgore148 Hi! Stay strong! There are a number of support groups on FB for Estranged Parents! As well as helpful books! ' Done with the Crying' by Sheri McGregor..

[@SplendidCoffee0]

This video saved me from a terrible, no good, super bad relationship on December 4th of 2019. Thanks again.

[@lcollins3806]

About two years ago I got out of a very manipulative and emotionally abusive relationship and this video just really hits home. If anyone out there is questioning if they can move past their relationship, you got this!!

[@darrynreid4500]

My wife is sitting next to me teasing me in fun about binge watching your channel. The behaviours you describe here are all to familiar to me from my family of origin, not my marriage - we discuss things calmly, deliberately comparing options, looking for unintended consequences and trade-offs, usually with humour, before coming to joint decisions. We look out for one another's best interests; for instance, she encouraged me for about two years to finally buy the car I really want, helping me to overcome the sense of guilt programmed from my childhood at the thought of obtaining something I want. My point is not to counter the content of the video but to emphasise that while toxic relationships certainly exist, they are not inevitable and should not be regarded as normal.

[@PajamaJazama]

Lucky you. My girlfriend actually gives me shit for being too reasonable

[@TJDK]

Thank you for hope, I feel like much of that was just sucked out of me over last 8 to 10 years which includes a failed marriage with a narc and a shitty relationship with a covert narc. I would give just about every piece of me I have left for something like that. But all I can do is keep working on me and with any luck some day things will be right comfortable sane and not just blurs of strong emotions that cut onto you over and over once past the attention caring and love stage once the confusion concern sadness and then despair show up it's as hard a thing as I have ever had to face emotionally and it's just completely draining of all the positive feelings leaving you almost as hollow as the emptiness of a narc's soul.

[@jameschichi59]

I thumbsd down your comment , i give my bitch the hands if dinner aint cooked 😎

[@morganblackshear1705]

@@jameschichi59 - SHUT UP -james / Jacka**

[@mmmsunshine5367]

💕

[@ItsMemeSmile]

You uploaded this right when I needed it

[@K2scuba]

I look forward to experiencing a non toxic romantic relationship once in my life. So far, my batting average is dismal.

[@laraoneal7284]

K2scuba Same here.

[@lovettatobeyea190]

Same 😔

[@Geronimo2u]

Work on self, awaken, become self aware so you don’t meet and attract such characters, because that’s so common.😌

[@erasmus9511]

I was like that too until I finally met my bf a year ago. I didn’t like him at first i even resented him for no reason, I realized my comfort zone was with toxic people and thus I always attracted to them. But I keep pushing myself to see my bf as who he is instead of letting my irrational feelings on the way and he really shows me how secure relationship works. We communicate about everything that we feel, all problems. We use words to describe what we feel instead of acting out our feelings. I’m forever grateful for him and I hope you can break your cycle of toxic partners too. Break the cycle and step out of your comfort zone. Good luck!

[@TJDK]

Good lord it's like I am in a cycle of every woman I date ends up being a narcissist either overt or covert. I often used to joke by saying if she's crazy then she will fall in love with me almost instantaneously. Now sadly I am not joking about it anymore

[@pocoeagle2]

I understand every relationship has its ups and downs. Good you do a video about the opposite topic. A video about signs, examples of a healthy + good relationship? Thanks doc 😊

[@DrGrande]

That's a good idea - I am so used to dealing with problems, I will really have to give some thought to the positive signs -

[@pocoeagle2]

@@DrGrande 👍

[@trinity6764]

Thank you for asking that question .☺

[@k.ambriz9789]

Good idea. My indicators of a healthy relationship are how you feel when you are with the other person, respect and healthy boundaries. Both partners making an effort, mutual effective communication and conflict resolution. Just a few ideas.

[@cathyt144]

pocoeagle2 awesome idea!ive learned to doubt my own choices because of fear that the relationship.will be just a repeat of the last. i was in what i consider a healthy relationship only 1time in my life and got to see just a portion of it because he died from cancer just6wks shy of our 2nd wedding anniversary. i would love to see the flip side of this too. thanks for suggesting it. 😀

[@angelac3788]

Oh man, that #1....Threats to leave? Yes, please...go! FREEDOM!!!

[@christianpulisic7784]

Angela C,You are beautiful 🌹🌹🥀,hope you are not with a narc 😈!!

[@williamhendrix6476]

Absolutely! Freedom!!!

[@lorianne4608]

I’m in a severely toxic relationship. I’m trying to get out. Thank you!!

[@novaimu]

Go for it Lori Anne.

[@emilyrivera3640]

Me too but hard to find a place with the pandemic. Been in it for 33 years. I was just today thinking about my marriage. About how its so toxic and he drinks to top it off. He's not physically abusive but its bad just the same. Ahhhh im worn out from it all.

[@tatyanafadden2005]

At least when you realized it, you know how to get directions to get out from this tunnel! This session for me was like a silver lining.

[@aircooledvw]

Same

[@nazihahanafi9231]

Me too is trying to escape toxic husband

[@2legit2Kwit]

Thank you, Dr. Grande. I appreciate the clarification.... my dad just said that “mental case” is a great catch all for all these groups of disorders. He’s 81. He said my mom was a mental case (borderline with narcissist traits) so now I seek out that to heal my toxic relationship with her. (She’s passed). Thank you so much for this!

[@flawedplan]

This is very reassuring and comes at just the right time. My partner and I are working our way out of a troubled DSM-loaded relationship with deliberation and a lot of help; but two weeks ago I all but gave up and howled that this is a toxic relationship and there is no hope. One of our counselors disagreed and said try to look at the trajectory and see how far we've come over the years, and watching this video has brought to mind so many sad ways of interacting we don't engage in anymore and states of being I don't experience as a result. I need to give my man some credit for all he's accomplished, I had no idea, but it's true, we have changed. Thanks again Dr. Grande for making this stranger's life explicit to herself.

[@taraswertelecki7874]

Relationships should never leave you feeling awful *ALL* the time. If a relationship leaves you feeling that way all the time, it's a good sign that either you need to get out of it, OR insist that the other person work with you to fix the problems or you're leaving.

[@janycebrown4071]

I tried to go to counseling with my husband and it didn't help. After 30 years , today I told him to leave. I am 54 and I am on my own for the first time in my life. It's scary , but I wish I had done this years ago 🥳

[@primaveraprimavera2415]

@@janycebrown4071 you will never look back. This is the beginning for you. The best thing you could ever do. The only answer. Stay no contact if possible for ever. You are brave 🌟

[@hunkydory3521]

Wow my entire extended family is severely narcissistic.

[@someonerandom256]

Welcome to the club!

[@moho319]

Can I join? 👋🏼😂

[@ponytail3786]

Common in India!!!😂

[@pattyhogan2889]

Watching your video brought me back to my first husband. That toxic relationship lasted a very long two years. So glad I left. There was no fixing that.

[@lejlafazlic7770]

this is so true! Thank you for sharing, its nice to get a professional view! I have had ptsd for years bcs of really bad relationships...at least he has been gone for a while now...but i still have ptsd from it ...even years after it ended! It's nice to know im not the only one who has gone through such a nightmare

[@Estelle-Maureen]

I admire your optimistic outlook Dr. Grande!!! Thank you for another great video!!!

[@danacabrera3523]

Same!!! This is super complex and I loved how he ended it with him saying in his opinion a toxic relationship can be saved but it takes work. ❤️🥰

[@anjiliveach3267]

Thanks for this video, Dr. G. I found this to be really helpful. :) Do you think you might be able to make a video about signs of a healthy relationship? I grew up in a home where my parents had a very bad marriage which ended in divorce, and I've had several abusive or otherwise toxic relationships myself. When entering into new relationships I find myself second-guessing whether things are normal and healthy, because I don't really have a baseline against which to make that determination. It would be really helpful to me if you could address that kind of situation. :)

[@AlQaeda198]

Really good idea

[@nancyliu577]

Yes, I would like that too.

[@mars9399]

Oh yeah, I've never really had good role models and have only relied on trial&error, theory, and anecdotes.

[@Dani-cg9hn]

@@mars9399 I grew up being told , you don’t know anything. Then, I’ve been invalidated so much I don’t trust myself, even when I know I am right. I trust my kids, lol 😆 I ask them as back up confirmation. Thank God for them. Thank God’s Grace and mercy.

[@maricamaas5555]

Really refreshing to hear advice in support of not running away from problems. Truth is that problems have the habit of travelling with us to new destinations, and if not resolved properly, they grow larger.

[@1976JasminK]

Just wanted to go to bed - it’s midnight here in Europe - new video from Dr. Grande and had to watch it! 😂👍

[@DrGrande]

I hope it was worth staying up for :)

[@jacqc1533]

Another UK fan listening too... I find Dr Grandes videos are compulsive listening whatever the hour!

[@melp9409]

Thank you, from Italy!😀

[@danielahoti4109]

Big gratitude for your excellent scientific work. It's so helpful to me, especially this topic on toxic relationship. Greetings from Germany 🇩🇪💞

[@serendipitous_synchronicity]

I can relate, thinking about this video content, had me meet the morning sun! Now, I run a bath & re read "the seven selfs"

[@elisamastromarino7123]

The silent treatment! Ohhhhh...I'm chatty so this is definitely passive aggressive to me. No good. Thank you doctor. Good guidelines. 😊👍🌹

[@lolavelmar2996]

Silent treatment is a emotional abusive behavior. Never tolerate it. Move on.

[@thebeasters]

@@lolavelmar2996 Not for the first hour I'm awake. Please shut the fuck up. It's probably narcissistic of me, but has helped my relationship a lot. Or maybe it's not healthy but cut down the exhausting fighting a lot

[@1chienandalou]

I’m so glad people are finally realizing how harmful this is. Of course they always say it’s to avoid arguments or “drama”... even though they do it when there’s no such things or they are creating the issue

[@Lordalexzader]

Not just interesting, you may well have saved my life. Thank you, for all you do. I love your content.

[@peterdavistorres8545]

I found this video incredibly helpful, informative, and accurate. The only thing I disagree with, is the end part about trying to "save" the toxic relationship. More frequently than not, I've noticed than trying to "save" it is a total waste of time. I think that an individual has a right to happiness and to be with the kind of partner he/she wants and needs, without trying to conform to anything less. And more so, if one is totally willing to give/offer what one wants and expect from our partner. By all means, yes, try to save the relationship if that's possible - especially night there are children involved. But having to "accept" that some of that toxic behavior (or nature, or inclinations) is going to be present, to one degree or another, is not acting out of self-love - we have a right to live the kind of life we want to live. Otherwise, I think this video is a masterpiece!!

[@violagentsch]

After almost 6 years with an narc, i somehow enjoy my single life. 🤔

[@4TLOL]

Amen! Me too! I feel so free now! ❤️❤️❤️😁

[@paulaneary7877]

As far as someone seeking counseling, or not wanting to, there are PLENTY of EXTREMYLY CRAPPY counselors out there. That would be a reason I would tend not to run to them. I have seen and experienced very manipulative situations as far as seeking help from supposed "professionals." Just because someone would rather not partake of that aspect of society running to someone else to figure out their problems, does not mean it is fear. My sister has gone to counsellors and psychiatrists for YEARS and she is one of the most unhappy, unfulfilled people I know. I listen to your videos because you are logical, and neutral. Not many are like you Dr. Grande.

[@lucyinchoatus2270]

I would love for you to cover this topic in more depth too, maybe with more signs and how to tell at the beginning of a relationship to see red flags. Also if there may be any potential ways to differentiate between a rough patch and more long lasting problems which run deep. Any ways of telling if the perpetrator is genuine about getting help and potential reasons for resisting getting help to achieve happiness. A very complex issue as you stated. Thank you 🌞

[@DrGrande]

Thank you for these ideas - I will add them to the production list -

[@lucyinchoatus2270]

@@brusselsprout5851 I'm sorry to hear about your troubles, may God bless you with happier times.

[@lucyinchoatus2270]

@@DrGrande that's great news, I look forward to more from you on this then. Thank you once again 👌

[@timmcdowell4092]

Thank you for this. Very helpful. The realization that my life is a mess is difficult but gives many areas to improve rather than sit back and fret about it.

[@VenaJensen]

I'd like to hear more about how the silent treatment is a manipulation and how to deal with that on a constant basis. How you try and try to engage and it makes you feel crazy because the other person makes it seem like they're so wonderful because they're not saying anything but you're "bad" because you want to address the issue. Like if you would just ignore their behaviors and issues in the relationship then everything would be fine. They are very controlling but in a passive way.

[@christianpulisic7784]

Vena Jensen,You are beautiful 🌹🌷,hope you are not with a narc 😈!!

[@angiem7725]

I'd like to hear about it too! And how when the other person needs a "break" or "space" instead of communicating or resolving an issue. In my case this person wanted the break to start talking to someone else and date around aka cheat during this "break" while keeping me around.

[@ShugaSigga]

I know the feeling I go through the same thing

[@dvegas]

I think counseling is so valuable and is a great litmus test for determining whether certain behaviors are toxic. It helps provide me with an objective opinion and guidance. I really also love listening to your channel because you're an experienced professional who explains complex topics in a way that is easy to understand. Thank you!

[@tedoymisojos]

All the relationships I have are toxic to one degree or another. Though of course I contribute to the dynamic with avoidant behavior. Still, I would not leave these relationships, they are all I have. They don't get physically violent, and most of the time I can prevent them from devolving into relentless, sadistic verbal abuse by standing up for myself consistently and being slightly verbally aggressive here and there, regularly. Loved the video, thanks for sharing

[@VarnaVix]

Those sound like highly toxic relationships, and I doubt they really are "all you have," or at least all you can have. Convincing the victim that the abuse is normal, and that the victim is alone are both common tactics of abusers. Don't fall into that trap. If you can't talk to a therapist, at least read about patterns of abuse so that you can recognize and avoid them

[@andreasleonlandgren3092]

VarnaVix well said.

[@a.k.7424]

I hope you will keep searching for kind, safe, people. It is a whole other world, it actively nourishes you. If you can find even ONE warm, honest, forthright friend, it helps you to realize how good closeness with others can be, and it can help you to unlearn all the weird behaviors we adopted with our family in order to survive!

[@tedoymisojos]

@@a.k.7424 That would be great. Its fine if I dont, but I like that its possible. I think I would have to actively seek this person. Cant see it just happening, specially now with Covid.

[@gorunsko31]

IMHO this is your best video presentation out of many I have watched. Thank you 🙏 it gives a clear definition of manipulation and explains how it can damage relationship. In my 46 years of marriage, 42 were years where I have been manipulated significantly but did not recognized until only 4-5 years ago with the help of a friend who is also married, but her marriage is either not toxic or has a lower level of toxicity. As a pregnant immigrant with very little English I was an easy target for manipulation as was described in marriage counseling as a “punching pillow” for my husband. Ouch! It hurts even now to recall these years. I can speak and write now in his native language, but I still failed occasionally to elicit respect or compassion from my partner. I so appreciate your opinion that leaving often is an easier way out of toxic marriage. I have been implementing a new way of dealing with the provocation and accusations (these are hard to ignore) coming from my chronically grumpy and depressed husband. I tried very hard not to react, but rather respond calmly later on or just stay silent rather then trying to explain myself to him. Explanation only adds the gasoline to his fire. Thank you again. This video has helped me a lot. I will return to it and will make a notes to myself. 🙏❤️P.S. I just realized this is my second time of watching this video… but this time I heard everything what was said and I fully grasped the concept of toxic relationship.

[@SteveWrightNZ]

12:10 wise words - I think you suggest that happiness and peace could be better result than the the repaired relationship. As an empath, I had to let go of my high views (demands if you want to call them that) of what a relationship could ever be, and simply go back to every day working on myself, by myself, for myself. This unravelled a lot of harm that was happening regularly and allowed me to start achieving results that were intrinisically beneficial to me - critically important to the rebuild of my self respect. The emotional loss was great, but was very quickly replaced by the joy of little things like money saved, fitness regained, and finanical plans made. All this sure does disarm the perpetuator - when they aren't able to ankle-tap everything... Go get it people, stop waiting, complaining, expecting, and go start doing.

[@piachavez5350]

This me! Glad he left me! I'm at a much much better place now. I was sinking when with him and didn't want to admit it because I had this desperate grasp on the relationship - didn't want to be single again. But actually, single life way waaaay more fulfilling for me.

[@wildwoodskimberlynewworldd5282]

Leaving a toxic relationship. At 62 years old I believe that these issues come up with a partner you need to resolve them you need to work them out because you'll bring them up again and again and again in different ways for different partners this is how we heal by being aware of our bad behavior period and working through it with your partner to resolve these childhood issues. The problem I have is so much damage has been done from childhood that it's literally ingrained in my bones. I had a terrible abusive childhood that I barely survived. They even tricked me into a mental place when I was 15 years old and gave me shock treatment I have absolutely no memory of how long I was there and what all happened to me I am devastated from this action they took against me. How do you get out of something like that. Abandonment issues oh yeah big-time

[@sbradley1308]

I think you're optimistic outlook could really help somebody who might realize they're being toxic and want to change. I believe a lot of times people avoid therapy because they're afraid they're going to hear something they don't like, which might happen but to know that the therapist could be on their side in the sense that they want to help them become a better person and save a relationship that they, even as a toxic person, want;could give them the courage to seek help. I also think it could be helpful for the person who is the victim in a toxic relationship, yet who wants to save the relationship, to know it can be possible but only if both people put the work in. Your approach is both realistic but hopeful.

[@vernonhedge4530]

1st 3:10 Chronic, protracted argumentation without resolution or forgiveness. 2nd 4:39 The victim feels their partner wishes them dead and 5:13 Dread of sex, relief when partner leaves for the day. 3rd 6:08 Unfounded accusations of victim ruining toxic person's life, infidelity. 4th 6:31 Unhelpful personality and temperament characteristics. 5th 7:03 Unhelpful communication style, e.g., persistent badgering beyond signs of submission and sorrow. 6th 9:11 Excessive fantasy. Calculating benefits of leaving. 7th 9:54 Manipulation. 0:00 Intro 11:45 Can a toxic relationship be saved? Should it be saved? 13:49 What is and what is not successful. 14:15 Outro

[@jemgem9593]

The content of this video is awesome and spot on. I feel validated. You're an awesome you tuber x

[@jennylynn82173]

Leaving is not always the best option - especially when there is a child or children involved. Thank you for this video, Dr. Grande.

[@suepoch3931]

Yes, title grabbed me. I haven’t been watching due to life. I’ll binge watch and catch up👍👍👍👍👍☮️❤️🇺🇸

[@bonusgolden12]

Thank you, Dr. Grande, for another great video. My marriage has many elements of toxicity. All of the ones you mentioned and some others, too. However, I am so gratified to hear you express optimism that the toxicity can be ameliorated by making small changes in routines and habits. I love my husband and knew that he was quite damaged when we married. I'm also a survivor of an abusive childhood. I've always known that no marriage of which I am a part, would ever be perfect. Year by year, my husband and I make small improvements upward from our nadir, with the belief that the actions of love can make us better than we were in the beginning.

[@camuscat123]

The changes one makes in an established, consistent daily routine seem the most challenging...just look at addiction...which seems representative of an internalized toxic relationship. Some people gravitate toward such relationships and seem to experience themselves and others as both victim and victimizer...It's hard to untangle the 2: within the self and outside of it. This really conjured deep thought. Thanks.

[@umitbilgesamanli2431]

Thank you Dr Grande, or conveying beautifully your science and experience in a very detailed way.. A bird's eye view, at the same tlme... your optimistic outlook is not for people who have decided to leave, but for those who are looking out for ways to repair and stay. I am 70 years old, mother of two grown-up men, married for 42 years, and have lived through enough experience to know exactly what you are talking about so beautifully. Thank you so much. I have been following you for the last one year, extensively. Looking on for all of your future conferences.

[@jeantave8562]

Thank you Dr. Grande, couldn't be a more accurate list!

[@radwaawad9013]

I really like that you are practical snd realistic in terms of your advice. You aknowledge that leaving is not always an option and sympathize with that.

[@Geronimo2u]

Dr. Grande, listening to your videos is very real within my life, having grown up in Middle East Narcissism and Codependency are two pillars of the environment. Sadly most men grow up in narcissism and most women grow up codependent, at times with age women turn slightly Narcisstic with their daughter or son In laws occasionally. Some cultures intentionally produce such ways it seems. I would love to see more cross cultural coverage on these topics. Thank you and thank you for your work, wisdom and sharing

[@AtomicSonicHalos]

Thank you for classifying my ex's behaviour. At the time, I thought he was emotionally stunted & we could try to learn how to argue. It was only the year before we divorced that I learned all these traits in 1 person ... dooms each person. This info you provide is GOLD, & rescues people!

[@rubberbiscuit99]

This video should be spread widely so those who are going through a toxic relationship get the validation they need. I do disagree that leaving is an easy answer to a toxic relationship. Malignant people may claim to want to "work things out," but in reality they only want to continue to do as they please while deceiving and draining the partner. Leaving one of these people is necessary, but it is in no way easy to accomplish.

[@elizabethdelavega8304]

You indicate here Dr G that staying is at times unavoidable. If I would’ve stayed longer I would’ve preferred to be dead. These relationships are gut wrenching. Personally, my spirit just can’t handle it. I am finally at peace. I do what I want, when I want, there’s no price tag too high! As always, thank you for your passion and knowledge!!

[@ennvee1970]

One of my options is when I did go to Therapy with my wife she used it to bind me and avoid any questions about her involvement and when I tried to explain my point of view she started to cry and misdirect acting as though I was being the aggressor which in turn escalated the division (frustrating me) this was over 10 years ago before I understood her Tactic, she never got better. Thanks again

[@teresasully3561]

Hope you are out of the relationship now.

[@yvettedurbangirlsa]

Spot on this is my Partner to a T. He's a Narcissist. I've learnt how to deal with him and no longer get upset. I give him his own medicine. He does all the things you've mentioned. I'm enjoying my life with my Son and my Furkid so I'm no longer a victim. He's 68 out of shape and drinks alot. He's a good provider. No need to leave. Love your videos ❤

[@sandrakranzwinther3286]

I thought it would be over after I got divorced but the toxicity doesn't end just because you split up. 10 years later and I can finally say it out loud: he was abusing me. For so long I actually thought it was my fault. We have children and there's been massive problems with working together, my ex accusing me of child abuse in front of teachers, psychologists, counsellors etc. At the same time he never wanted them at his house and now they don't want to see him. Every lie he tells about me is just a continuing of our toxic marriage. Maybe a follow up Dr. Grande? "How to cooperate with your ex after the divorce."? Thank you so much for your helpful videos.

[@AlpinePreparedness]

Dr Grande you have changed my life! I was raised in a narcissistic family and ended up with a narcissistic partner.. thank you for helping me weed my way through this

[@ananimity7332]

Dr. Grande I agree with everything you said. I've seen friends in toxic relationships and thankfully they got the help they needed and got out of the relationships. I could listen to you talk for hours

[@rejaneoliveira5019]

Even after so many years, I can’t get enough of your videos. This was fantastic. Thank you.❤

[@smartguygiyo]

There is a narccisist everywhere! Like the part, 'change in small habits influence the relationship in a positive way than grand gestures'!

[@Filekeepers]

Geo Thampan what do you mean ?

[@smartguygiyo]

@@Filekeepers There is never a toxic relationship discussion without talking about a narccisist. They are diabolically potent.

[@sandrashaw6298]

Geo Thampan, maybe so. But still, just because they think they are God doesn’t mean we have to. Consider reality; don’t believe the hype!

[@LasPhoenix777]

I played this for my husband. Because it made me so happy. This video has shown me how much we've grown.

[@rightnow5839]

Love 💕 this Dr. Grande, Everything from what defines a toxic relationship , to bad signs, to the part about habits being more important then grande gestures, it all rings true to me! 👍🏻 As always!

[@DrGrande]

Thank you so much!

[@rightnow5839]

Dr. Todd Grande y 🙏 I enjoy your videos, and appreciate that you respond to and like comments. In life I have to stay emotionally mature sometimes amidst bad behavior, and sometimes just listening to one of these is encouraging. 😊

[@rightnow5839]

Dr. Todd Grande I have a that would be very difficult, and that is would you analyze the Muller report, and IM Not serious, Lmao, I’m still trying to finish reading it myself. Lmao! 😂

[@lifebeelifebee9214]

Great video, doc. To me, it's pretty simple. In relationship, one person is there for another, and vice versa. If one person is for themselves using another, and another is in constant fixer and pleaser, attempting to comprehend the dynamics at the same time and picking little bits and pieces of self validation from another (learning to live with less), I call it toxic.

[@DeadDinosaur]

My ex pretty much checked all of those, i'm not perfect either, but damn, it's so like this. Being unable to discuss my emotions especially and all the literal psycho screaming and antagonism and the unending fighting when i was ready to just let it go and even say i'm wrong even though i'm not. She almost destroyed me as a person. But i'm recovering now, on my own. It's crazy how quickly my life got better once she was out of the picture.

[@Cat-yn5jc]

Absolutely agree about changing smaller habits! Grand gestures in my opinion are to impress others outside of the relationship.

[@suemick8709]

I appreciate your straight forward approach to explaining relationship dynamics. Two thumbs up! Very helpful to me , thank you.

[@DrGrande]

Thank you for those kind words :)

[@denisebowen7647]

This is US!!! You were describing my life. Me the MPD, him the N. It's so difficult to get past my own mind and try to figure out what a "normal " person would think, say or act like at any given moment. It's is so tough being a MPD. I feel like I'm trapped in a box jumping trying to escape and can't jump him enough over the walls or sides. Thank you for all the hard work you put into each of your analysis.

[@RABuffat]

Incredibly descriptions! Thank you Dr. Grande.

[@strwbrywoman]

Good one Dr. G. Usually the advice is just leave so I'm glad you touched on that. Also the physical reaction when they leave or come home... right on! Finally your optimism was refreshing and gave me a bit of hope. Thank you Sir.

[@verablexitasap858]

I remember in grad school we had to write a bio psychosocial assessment of Aileen Wuornos. It was great. I love how Dr Grande uses infamous cases to discuss traits, characteristics and indicators of different mental health illnesses/diagnosis

[@christianpulisic7784]

Vera BLEXIT ASAP,Your lovely smile 😊 can make the news!!

[@verablexitasap858]

@@christianpulisic7784 You're beautiful for saying that! Thank u!🤗

[@christianpulisic7784]

@@verablexitasap858 Which country are you from?

[@verablexitasap858]

@@christianpulisic7784 US

[@allisonwright67]

"It's the little things we change in our daily life that actually make the difference " for me that's true. I stumbled upon a way of thinking that has literally brought me out of darkness...I started picturing myself as a character in a book...what would I ,as the reader, desperately want (protagonist) me to do? Then I would make small adjustments to get in line with that path. Changing my response to entitled, toxic behaviours inevitably changed the dynamic. Time will tell if the changes in my husband (and me) are enduring! Thank you for your counter narrative to this plethora of bs about narcissists on you tube! You are a refreshing voice of reason...and funny! You summed it up in the Michael Jackson video saying "I don't like boring things" The funniest things are true. I appreciate you covering really heavy things, your sense of humor for me is bang on. brings relief. A

[@maegs1982]

Thank you! Wow, incredible. This was nearly word for word what it was like with my vulnerable narcissistic ex. And ya, grand gestures mean nothing! Little things, he would never change. And he would resent me for even asking for small things. But he thought that throwing a birthday party would make up for all shit in the past. He deliberately took me bowling for my bday, even though every single birthday of mine prior I chose to go to karaoke, and it was the obvious choice. Even my friends all said to him, "are you sure? Maybe you should take her to karaoke." He consistently told them all, no, and when I asked out of curiosity later why we didnt go go karaoke, he flipped out at me. "You're so ungrateful! I did so much for you and you don't even appreciate it! I'm never throwing you another bday party!" He even lied to me and tried to blame my friends, saying THEY didnt want to go to karaoke. When I asked them all what happened, they all said the exact same story. He told them about the party at a time I wasnt there and they were all in the same room together and they all said to me individually, "we told him he should plan to go go karaoke but he said he wanted to go bowling for a change." When I told him I asked all my friends and they all have the same story, you're the only one with a different one, he then shunned all of my friends for a long time and made them feel scared to come and visit me in my home because of his coldness. He always got mad at me for maintaining my friendships with them. And now, after the break up, he is STILL bringing up the birthday from over a year ago now, saying, " I knew ever since then that I didnt wanna be with you, you ungrateful bitch." Even though it was after my birthday that he wouldnt stop nagging to move into my place, and after moving in that he lost his job, and never attempted to find a new one, and started cheating on me with ppl on plenty of fish. Like, WOW. Can you say narcissist much?? He fits the description to a T. Thanks Dr. Grande, for yet another amazingly accurate breakdown!

[@christinley5213]

Thisnis why I watch you...you break it down to the t!!!! You.leave nothing out!! Thank you..always helpful!!!

[@Dreamskater100]

Todd- could you do a part b) of this for non partner relationships? ie- sister in law(s), estranged brother, colleagues, Parents, & suspect 'friends'. (Also a past partner interest but present in yr life). A lot of these points do relate but a part b) as it were woul be very helpful. Thank you.

[@kate9576]

I’ve worked in some terrible workplaces I would love to get more information on toxic bosses and toxic coworkers and generally toxic work environments. I just had two in a row and I just cannot have any more.

[@lauramason5667]

My sister always said she could tell when I was in an unhappy (bad) relationship when I started complaining about him all the time. It may sound kind of funny but how we speak about the person or the relationship is a huge reflection of how we’re feeling.

[@prezidenttrump5171]

This is an amazing video. Just got out of an insane relationship with an overly emotional woman who was trying to gaslight me into thinking I was the problem. She would tell me none of her friends or family wanted me to be with her, couldn't take criticism, etc etc. I swear on my life I was not the problem, but it got so crazy there for awhile and this video rang so true. Makes me feel so much better about leaving. To anyone in a similar situation, do the right thing and leave. I'm almost 30, but there is plenty of life left to find someone better. Stay strong everyone and thank you Dr. Todd Grande.

[@louisesherwood]

spot on. Narcissism is such an overused word by many people who do not understand the basic nature of the beast of the cluster of behaviors. But toxic is clear, that the relationship is harmful, without blaming or labelling- the relationship is poisonous. We'd be stupid to take poison so why would we continue to take daily doses of poison in a relationship? If you are in this situation where counseling has failed to make quick meaningful changes to reduce toxicity, calmly cut bait and move away from the toxic relationship. It's simple, yet it's hard but well worth it.

[@jemgem9593]

Your brain works so fast and so clearly x

[@sedaisildar8120]

You are so right about a grand gesture as an apology vs minor positives change in daily life. I hate verbal apologies without any action to follow.

[@Thegodsunwantedchild]

It occurred to me to ask while watching, but have you ever heard of anyone being toxic to one's own self?

[@TrueBlueCat]

@Thegodsunwantedchild Theres an old relationship saying I use to hear: "I can do bad on my own, I dont need no help". So yes, people I think who contribute to toxic relationships are toxic to themselves. Toxicity is festering inside and erupts eventually. It has to have an affect on themselves too. Also like the expression, " I'm my own worse enemy". But I'm no expert here...lets see what the doc has to say!

[@jackiejames3898]

I believe I'm toxic to myself because I selfsabatoge. It's very harmful and I realize it's a defense mechanism because I feel no control over my life due to toxic people. It's just so overwhelming everyday dealing with these people so I chainsmokers and tend to overdo everything because I can't control anything. I'm working on it😁

[@kathyclark8274]

@@jackiejames3898 It's a very S L O W suicide, honey. Don't do it. Just stop and get help.

[@heatherhartmann6056]

When you can acknowledge and identify the toxicity ..due to previous incidents and all... I'm gonna cut through this bs and ask how you go about the change...??? Some have had arguments for years in their relationship. Bringing the past up constantly to use as a step up over you. YOU'RE dead on! My question is can a violent domestic abuser change? Someone that is a very violent abuser is there a answer of hope , that they can change..???? OMG... You're describing my relationship and what that's been for almost 9 yrs. Leaving ISN'T an option. I'm really trying to give him that chance and option. I can say you're on point.. as always .. living in fear and not knowing is the worst anxiety in the world. I always learn from you . Thank you... You're really an amazing Dr and I truly appreciate the time you put in and what you do.🙂