There is hope in toxic relationships

A healthy relationship is a partnership based on mutual respect and equality. This includes respecting the limits and comfort levels of the person with whom you’ve built a connection, even if they don’t feel the same way you do.

As a society, we struggle to find examples of healthy relationships among media that in fact glamorizes toxic relationships. An example of this is the Oscar-nominated movie “A Star is Born.” No doubt the magnetic chemistry between Lady Gaga’s and Bradley Cooper's characters makes for popular entertainment. Unfortunately, this glamorization of intense relationships gone wrong leaves audiences with impressions that these unhealthy dynamics are normal.

At The National Domestic Violence Hotline and loveisrespect.org, we envision a world where all relationships are positive, healthy and free from violence. Some questions to ask yourself if a relationship is toxic:

❚ Is your partner consistently trying to exert power and control over you? Is the relationship mutually beneficial?

❚ Are you always sacrificing instead of compromising? Are you happy and free to express yourself?

Every day, all day our advocates offer confidential, compassionate support in order to shift power back to those affected by relationship abuse. You can reach us via phone, online chat and text.

If you have concerns that your relationship is toxic, call 1-800-799-SAFE or chat online at: www.thehotline.org or www.loveisrespect.org.

Katie Ray-Jones, CEO National Domestic Violence Hotline

Austin