Are red flags a reason to walk away from someone?

Are all red flags the same for everyone?

What Are Relationship Red Flags?

Throughout all contexts, the term red flag signifies a reason to stop.

Wendy Walsh, PhD, a clinical psychologist who specializes in relationships.

Note thatred flags in a relationshipmight not be obvious.

Also, it can take some time for a red flag to present in a relationship.

Are You in a Healthy Relationship?

A red flag might be someone with a history ofdomestic violence,chronic cheating, orsubstance abuse."

Reliance on drugs to handle daily life or its ups and downs is also concerning.

It indicates they havent developed a healthy way to properly channel their emotions.

In some cases, it could also be indicative they lackempathy for others.

For more mental health resources, see ourNational Helpline Database.

Persistent Jealousy and Distrust

Another common red flag isjealousyand distrust, says Trueblood.

History of Infidelity

Relationships require trust to succeed.

If your partner has ahistory of infidelity, its important to proceed with caution.

Do pay attention to the language your partner uses when discussing those theyve dated in the past.

make a run at understand why your partner has struggled to build connections with others.

They Give You All Their Time

This red flag can sometimes tie into the last one.

When each party has their own sense of self, it can enrich your individual selves and your bond.

For some,emotional intimacyis challenging but it should always be the goal.

A partner who shows no interest in opening up and bonding is a death knell for a relationship.

Gaslighting

Gaslighting is when a person says and/or does things to make you question your own sanity.

The goal of this key in of emotional abuse is control.

Move toward this person and they’ll move away.

But if you withdraw, the person will ramp up their breadcrumbing again.

A breadcrumber doesn’t like or intend to commit.

Keep in Mind

This list of red flags isnt exhaustive; there are surely others.

In some cases, it might make sense to have a go at salvage your bond.

But if your partner shows no sign of self-correction, it is probably best to walk away.

If you ever struggle with knowing what to do,speaking with a therapistcan help.

2021;33(9):35-40.