Everyone at some point goes through a toxic relationship. That could be a friend, or a boyfriend/girlfriend. Whether you’re in one now or had one in the past, there is always gonna be that one toxic person in your life. Getting out of the relationship though, can be a little harder. Here are some steps to help you out.

Step One: Determine what a toxic relationship is.

By definition, a toxic relationship is a relationship characterized by behaviors on the part of the toxic partner that are emotionally and, not infrequently, physically damaging to their partner. In other words a toxic relationship isn’t good towards your physical being or state of mind.

Step Two: Determine the signs of a toxic friend/relationship

 The signs of a toxic friend: They’ll encourage you to do unsafe or immoral things and will most likely be involved with drugs or alcohol and will try to convince you to partake in those activities. These toxic people will be distant from family and may not take authority well causing them to be narcissistic and  abusive. They will constantly be judging other people and may also be bringing you down. Another sign is if they use you for the benefit of themselves. For example, they can use you for your money, popularity, grades, looks etc. Last but not least, they can’t take no for an answer and won’t take second best. Basically these people are poison running through your veins and will slowly lead you to your death.

Step Three : Determine what relationships of yours are toxic.

The first thing you need to ask is, “Am I toxic?” If you believe you are then evaluate your actions and consider change. If not toxic then truth be told some of your closet friends probably are. Most toxic relationships are with people who you are really close with. Coming from experience, most of my really close friends were bad for me and I had to get rid of them. These people always wanted something from me. Whether it be help with their drama or just plain out attention from me. They always used me as a pawn in the big game of their life.

Step Four : Once you have determined what friends are toxic for you, you need to transition into a disposal stage.

It is almost impossible to get rid of a person instantly. You have to transition by taking things slow. Figure out what you are going to say and be very clear with them. Mental Floss gave the advice to,”Be very, very clear with the person about your intentions, then keep the necessary distance to make sure your message isn’t misconstrued.” If you don’t want to be involved with the person anymore, don’t lead them on.

Another piece of great advice is that you don’t wanna block or ghost the person on social media without talking to them first. The person will get the wrong idea and this can make the situation worse. Believe me, I tried to just flat out ignore one of my toxic friends and it did not end up well. Head Space brings up the point that just ignoring them will make things worse.”Ghosting and being flaky are ineffectual methods for ending friendships. Hiding behind your job, family, or other commitments may only further complicate the matter.”

Step Five : Hang with positive friends to help cope.

After you talk to the toxic friend and have established boundaries, stay clear of them and find ways to cope through your friends and family. Wikihow says you need to,”Reach out to your friends that are positive and supportive. Make plans to get together and hang out. Open up about what you’ve been going through. Be honest that you just ended a friendship and could use some extra support”. So in summary find someone who will be there for you and is willing to help you out. See a movie, get some ice cream, and cry it out.