The Hidden Dangers of Toxic Relationships

Toxic relationships can have devastating consequences on one's mental health, leading to the development of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Regardless of the type of abuse, be it emotional, verbal, physical, or sexual, the impact of toxic relationships on one's mental health cannot be overstated.

Although PTSD is often associated with experiencing violence or war, research has shown that it can also be caused by long-term exposure to psychological trauma, such as emotional abuse or neglect in toxic relationships.

Sadly, statistics show that the effects of toxic relationships are far-reaching, with 60% of men and 50% of women experiencing at least one traumatic event in their lifetime and approximately 7–8% of the population developing PTSD at some point.

Consider these other startling facts:

• A study published in the Journal of Interpersonal Violence found that individuals who experienced both childhood and adult emotional abuse were at a higher risk of developing PTSD symptoms than those who only experienced one type of abuse.
• The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) reports that individuals who have experienced childhood trauma are up to 15 times more likely to attempt suicide.
• The National Intimate Partner and Sexual Violence Survey (NISVS) found that 81% of women who experienced rape, stalking, or physical violence by an intimate partner reported significant short- or long-term impacts, such as post-traumatic stress disorder symptoms.
• The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that individuals who experience intimate partner violence are at an increased risk of developing chronic health conditions, including depression, anxiety, and PTSD.
• A study published in the Journal of Traumatic Stress found that survivors of intimate partner violence had a significantly higher prevalence of PTSD than those who had not experienced intimate partner violence.

These statistics only account for individuals who have experienced a single traumatic event and do not include those exposed to ongoing psychological trauma, such as emotional abuse or neglect in toxic relationships.

Furthermore, the insidious nature of emotional abuse can be particularly damaging and lead to PTSD. Behaviors such as belittling, humiliation, controlling, and gaslighting can cause a person to feel helpless, isolated, and traumatized, increasing the likelihood of developing PTSD. Studies have shown that individuals who have experienced emotional abuse are at a higher risk of developing PTSD than those who have not.

Additionally, physical and sexual abuse are other forms of trauma that can cause intense fear, anxiety, and helplessness, leading to PTSD. With one in four women and one in nine men experiencing severe physical violence from an intimate partner and one in five women and one in 71 men experiencing sexual violence other than rape from an intimate partner, the risk of developing PTSD from toxic relationships is significant.

Trauma bonding is another factor that can cause PTSD in toxic relationships. When a victim becomes emotionally attached to their abuser, trauma bonding occurs.

Although this phenomenon can happen in any toxic relationship, including romantic relationships, friendships, or relationships with family members, the victim may feel a sense of loyalty or obligation to their abuser, making it difficult to leave the relationship.

Studies have shown that trauma bonding can have a significant impact on one's mental health and can lead to the development of PTSD.

Given the devastating impact of toxic relationships on one's mental health, seeking help and support is vital. The National Domestic Violence Hotline and the National Sexual Assault Hotline provide confidential support and can be reached 24/7. With proper treatment and support, it is possible to overcome the effects of unhealthy relationships and move toward healing and recovery.

In short, the impact of toxic relationships on one's mental health is undeniable. Whether it's emotional abuse, physical abuse, sexual abuse, trauma bonding, or ongoing exposure to psychological trauma, the risk of developing PTSD is significant.

Therefore, it is essential to seek help if you or someone you know is experiencing a toxic relationship or struggling with PTSD symptoms. However, with proper support and treatment, it is possible to overcome the effects of unhealthy relationships and move toward a brighter future.