It’s normal for couples to occasionally ponder the future of their relationship. Despite outward appearances, every couple encounters rough patches. Even if you have strong feelings for your partner, it’s natural to question whether the relationship is truly right for you.

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Understanding when a relationship is going through its typical ups and downs versus when it’s nearing its end can be tricky. But there are some telltale signs to keep an eye out for. See all 16 signs to know when to leave a relationship or a loved one.

How can you tell it’s time to break up?

If you notice any of the following signs in your relationship, it might be time to think about whether things can be fixed.

1. Constant Arguments

Healthy disagreements are a normal part of any relationship, but if you find yourselves arguing more often than not, and the conflicts never seem to get resolved, it may be a sign that you’re not compatible in the long term.

2. Unresolved Issues

Every relationship has its ups and downs, but if recurring issues remain unresolved despite repeated attempts to address them, it can create a cycle of frustration and disappointment.

3. You’re doing all the sacrificing

Every relationship involves compromise, which is healthy. Whether it’s small things like choosing a restaurant or big decisions like moving for a job, both partners should give and take. But if you’re always the one making sacrifices without any reciprocity, it can lead to resentment and dissatisfaction in the long run.

4. Lack of trust

Trust is crucial in any relationship. Constantly doubting your partner’s honesty or feeling the need to snoop through their things indicates a lack of trust. If your partner has a history of dishonesty or infidelity, it can eat away at the foundation of your relationship, causing lasting damage.

5. You’ve drifted apart (No communication)

Do you feel a growing distance between you and your partner that’s hard to explain? Has it become challenging to communicate or share common interests?

Effective communication is key to a thriving relationship. If you and your partner struggle to communicate openly and honestly, or if one or both of you withdraws during discussions, it can lead to misunderstandings and resentment.

Many couples hold onto memories of their early days together, overlooking how both individuals have evolved. If you find yourselves feeling disconnected more often than not, it may signify that you’re ready to let go of the past.

6. Feeling Controlled

A healthy relationship is built on mutual respect and autonomy. If you feel controlled or manipulated by your partner, whether through overt demands or subtle coercion, it’s a red flag that the relationship may be toxic.

7. Lack of Support:

A supportive partner is someone who cheers you on during your successes, comforts you during your failures, and stands by your side through thick and thin. If you feel unsupported or neglected in times of need, it can erode the foundation of your relationship.

8. You’ve stopped caring or putting in the effort

Have you stopped checking in with your partner about their day? Perhaps you used to make an effort to reconnect, but now you struggle to find the motivation?

While every relationship experiences ups and downs, consistent disinterest in rekindling the connection you once had signals a cooling off that shouldn’t be ignored.

9. Lost Intimacy

Intimacy goes beyond physical closeness; it includes emotional connection, vulnerability, and trust. If you and your partner have lost the emotional or physical intimacy you once shared, it can indicate underlying issues that need to be addressed.

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10. Experience of Physical or emotional abuse

Any form of abuse, whether physical or emotional, is a glaring red flag that the relationship has turned toxic. Your partner should never engage in behaviors that attack, frighten, control, or isolate you.

While physical abuse is more apparent, emotional abuse can be harder to recognize. Remember, you deserve to be treated with kindness and respect at all times.

11. Dislike of self in the relationship:

Feeling uncomfortable with yourself when you’re around your partner can erode your self-esteem over time. A healthy relationship should uplift and bring out the best in you.

If being with your partner consistently brings out negative feelings or aspects of your personality, it’s a clear indication that the relationship has become unhealthy.

12. Constant Fighting

While disagreements are a natural part of any relationship, feeling like you’re constantly walking on eggshells waiting for the next argument isn’t healthy. When conflicts go unresolved and escalate into disrespect and belittlement, it takes a toll on your emotional well-being.

Ask yourself if you’re finding new reasons to argue every day. If the answer is yes, it might be a sign that it’s time to go your separate ways.

13. Not getting your Needs met

In a healthy relationship, good communication is key to meeting each other’s needs. When communication breaks down, you may feel a sense of longing, discomfort, or even resentment.

If you constantly find yourself yearning for affection that isn’t reciprocated or fantasizing about a more fulfilling partnership, something isn’t right.

14. Constant Thoughts of Breaking Up

It’s normal to occasionally wonder about the future of your relationship. However, if thoughts of breaking up consume your mind, it’s a cause for concern.

Being with someone shouldn’t feel like an endless struggle, hoping for them to change. If you can’t envision a future with them as they are now, it might be time to consider ending the relationship.

15. You find yourselves in a cycle of breaking up and then reconciling

Remember those days in middle school when everyone seemed to break up and then get back together just as quickly? It might have seemed exciting then, but as adults, it’s not so appealing. If you and your partner keep breaking up and reuniting frequently, it’s a sign that there might be deeper issues that neither of you is addressing.

16. Ignoring Red Flags

Ignoring or rationalizing away red flags in the relationship, whether it’s substance abuse, infidelity, or abusive behavior, can have serious consequences for your well-being and safety.

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Ultimately, deciding to end a relationship is a deeply personal and difficult choice. It’s essential to weigh the pros and cons carefully, seek support from trusted friends or professionals, and prioritize your emotional well-being. While breaking up with someone you love is never easy, sometimes it’s the necessary step towards personal growth, healing, and finding a healthier and happier path forward.