By Bianca Zhou
With the vast diversity of experiences we gather throughout our lives, we all probably have had, or will have, an unhealthy relationship. An unhealthy relationship doesn’t necessarily have to be romantic, and can be defined as either:
a.) A relationship where one or more is too dependent of the other, so much to the point where a person suffers from withdrawal symptoms when the other is not present. This kind of relationship is very similar to that of a drug and its user.
b.) A non-mutual relationship where one person has more emotions toward the other, whether it’s feelings of love or hatred. This kind of relationship is unhealthy because it can cause depression after specific expectations are not met. It can be described as a kind of “hopeless” relationship.
These two definitions are not mutually exclusive. They can exist within each other, and can most definitely be synonymous. You can have a drug-like relationship, a “hopeless” relationship, neither, or both. Whether your unhealthy relationship is with your boyfriend, girlfriend, sibling, or just a friend, chances are you’ll have to call the shots or end up getting shot.
If you feel that you are in an unhealthy relationship, put yourself first. By maintaining a toxic relationship with someone, you are only hurting yourself. It is only your time and your efforts that are wasted. Either make adjustments or cut that relationship out. Like Michelle Obama says, “Do not bring people into your life who weigh you down. Trust your instincts. Good relationships feel good. They feel right. They don’t hurt.”
