18 Emotions That Should Not Be Felt in a Healthy Relationship

A relationship should provide a strong support system and serve as a secure sanctuary where you can express yourself freely, devoid of ridicule or judgment. Settling for a relationship that falls short of what you truly deserve, such as remaining in a stagnant or unsatisfying partnership, will only intensify feelings of isolation and loneliness.

If a relationship is negatively impacting your mental well-being, disturbing your inner peace, eroding your self-esteem, and generally causing more harm than good, it is advisable to consider either ending the relationship or seeking assistance to improve it. People pursue relationships with the aim of finding happiness, acceptance, and a sense of wholeness. However, when you experience any of the emotions described, it's essential to question whether staying in a relationship that is detrimental to your well-being is worthwhile.

# Unattended

In a relationship, one of the most gratifying experiences is knowing that someone cares about your happiness. Feeling neglected in a relationship or as if you're left to fend for yourself is not a characteristic of any relationship worth maintaining. A good partner should be attentive to your needs and endeavor to make you as happy as you make them.

# Isolated

Companionship lies at the heart of a relationship. If you consistently feel alone, it's worth questioning why you're staying in the relationship. If your partner frequently prioritizes their friends over your needs, it may be time to move on.

# Diminished

A loving partner should cherish and accept you, flaws and all. If your partner habitually highlights your imperfections to boost their own self-esteem, it's high time you seek someone who's more appreciative of your qualities.

# Fearful

A relationship should be a refuge, a place where you feel shielded from the harsh realities of the world. If you constantly live in fear of abuse, disrespect, or an overall lack of safety with your partner, it's essential to break free before the situation escalates.

# Walking on Eggshells

If you find yourself perpetually on edge around your partner, fearing angry outbursts, accusations, or insults, this relationship is profoundly unhealthy. You should feel at ease with your partner and not feel the need to monitor your actions constantly to prevent conflicts.

# Unworthy

A healthy relationship should bolster your self-confidence and make you feel secure in your own skin. Feeling unattractive or undesirable because of your relationship is a clear sign that you might not be with the right person. Your partner's words and actions should never undermine your confidence.

# Powerless

Feeling powerless, inferior, or as though you have no voice in your relationship is a red flag. A relationship should be an equal partnership, not a constant struggle for control.

# Exploited

If you sense that you're being taken advantage of in your relationship or that your partner is using you, it's a sign that you're not being treated as you deserve. Whether it's in terms of finances, emotions, physicality, or mentality, feeling like your partner is with you solely for the benefits you provide is selfish, to say the least.

# One-Sided

Effort should be mutual in a relationship. If you feel like you're solely responsible for keeping the relationship afloat and your partner isn't meeting you halfway, it might be time to reconsider the relationship.

# Manipulated

Manipulators often subtly coerce others. You may think you're acting out of love for your partner, but upon closer examination, you might realize that they're manipulating you to achieve their desires. If you ever feel coerced into doing something you're unsure about, it's a clear sign that your relationship is highly unhealthy.

# Dutiful

A relationship should be a choice, not an obligation. If you're in a relationship out of a sense of duty or because you feel indebted to your partner, you're staying for the wrong reasons. A relationship should be built on love, attraction, trust, and honesty, not a distorted sense of duty.

# Smothered

A possessive and jealous partner who restricts your freedom and autonomy can be suffocating. These partners won't be content until they have complete control over you, leaving you feeling confined.

# Deceived

Feeling betrayed or consistently lied to in a relationship by someone you once trusted is a deeply painful experience. If someone repeatedly betrays your trust or lies to you, they don't deserve your loyalty or your presence.

# Insecure

While not all relationships provide 100% security, you should at least feel some level of confidence when you're with your partner. If you constantly fear that even minor issues could lead to the demise of your relationship, you should either work on strengthening it or consider finding someone with whom you can feel more secure.

# Confined

You shouldn't feel trapped in a relationship or believe that you have no better options in life. Thinking that a subpar relationship is the best you can get is a misconception that prevents you from finding a more suitable partner.

# Stale

A relationship should be characterized by growth, shared plans, and common future goals. A healthy relationship should involve progression, commitment, and shared objectives. When your relationship feels stagnant, as if you've reached a dead end, it's time to reevaluate its worthiness.

# Monitored

Privacy is vital in a relationship. You shouldn't feel constantly surveilled by a partner who insists on knowing your every move. If you feel like you're under perpetual surveillance, your partner is overly controlling, and this impairs healthy relationship boundaries.

# Isolated

While it might initially seem flattering that your partner wants to be exclusively with you, if they continuously attempt to isolate you from the outside world, it's a sign that it's time to break free.