Surviving the Devastation of Toxic Relationships and Stormy Encounters

Are you, or someone you love, in a stormy relationship?

My family experienced our first major hurricane a few years ago. By then, we’d already survived at least two blizzards, two tornadoes, and two small earthquakes! 

The earthquakes happened without warnings. However, each storm was predicted with many warnings issued in advance. In the end, each natural occurrence left some level of damage behind.

Like storms and earthquakes, toxic relationships create fear. Emotional damage is always left behind. You may or may not be in a toxic relationship, but toxic people are everywhere! An encounter with them is inevitable. However, you can survive and recover from unhealthy relationships and stormy encounters. 

Read on.

Toxic relationships can affect you like dangerous storms.

1. Hurricanes are significant wind events known to destroy large, coastal areas. Likewise, human hurricanes are destructive to everyone around them. They are incredibly self-seeking and resistant to change. 

Human hurricanes blame you for the misery they bring. Maybe it’s time for you to evacuate away from the human hurricanes.

2. Tornadoes are usually spawned from severe thunderstorms. They pass through territories leaving damage to whatever is in the path. 

Do you know someone who likes to stir up trouble and care less about who gets hurt? That’s a human tornado. Take shelter from this person!

3. Blizzards are severe snowstorms with high winds. It is difficult to drive or walk in a blizzard. 

Human blizzards make it difficult for you to move forward with your life. They storm you with fault finding, criticism, and calloused remarks. You are left feeling rejected, discouraged, and defeated. Get out of the path of these icy blizzards.

4. Earthquakes can be equally or more dangerous as the above storms. These natural hazards happen with little warning. It’s the same with human earthquakes.   

You are minding your own business. Then it suddenly happens. The earthquake comes. It shakes you up with all sorts of unnecessary drama, awful news, or gossip (usually about you). Run from these human earthquakes!

As with natural occurrences, you have no control over the actions of toxic personalities. However, you have control over your responses to them.

1. Pay attention. Look for the warning signs. Dark clouds and strong winds warn of an approaching storm. 

Disrespect, anger, and mistrust in your relationships indicate trouble ahead. Do not ignore the red flags of abuse. You are worthy of respect and trust.

2. Protect yourself. We seek shelter during severe storms. Evacuations may be mandated to save lives. Likewise, you must protect yourself from toxic people. 

Remove yourself from their destructive paths. Refuse to believe the negative words hurdled at you. Stop making excuses for abusive people and troublemakers. This applies to family as well as friends.

3. Prepare ahead. We prepare for natural disasters by stocking up on food, water, batteries, and flashlights. By paying attention and protecting yourself daily, you are also preparing to avoid future toxic relationships. 

Also, a committed spiritual lifestyle can give you strength and peace of mind. Take care to avoid drugs and alcohol abuse. Eat healthily and exercise often. Challenge yourself intellectually.

Find help after the storm.

After the storm, residents begin to clean-up and repair the storm damages. Very often, these storm victims require professional help with broader repair issues. They may also need support from local and national agencies. 

After suffering emotional damage from a toxic relationship, you need restoration. Find someone you trust to help you. Your pastor, a compassionate therapist, or a support group are great resources to help you recover. It is God’s will for you to live your life in love, peace, and safety.

Question: Have you ever been the toxic person in a relationship? How did you change? You can leave a comment by clicking here.