Alsager person-centred counsellor, Hannah Bolton, offers her professional insight into the challenges of parenting, giving us an insight into toxic relationships.

Hannah told Nub News: "There can be an assumption that toxic relationships only appear in romantic partnerships. This is sadly not the case; any relationship can become toxic at any point. This could be between friends, family members, work colleagues or acquaintances."

What does a toxic relationship look like?

Hannah said: "A toxic relationship is one that is unhealthy, causing emotional and at times physical distress. It's a relationship where you may feel unsupported, that your personal boundaries are not respected, and you may find yourself questioning your part in the relationship.

"Within a relationship have you ever doubted yourself, thinking, 'it was my fault, I shouldn't have said or done that'. Or treading on eggshells, being too afraid to say what you think? As you don't know what sort of a response you would get?

"Have you ever questioned your sense of reality wondering, 'did I say/do that'?

"Have you ever thought the relationship seems one sided and your needs aren't being met?"

While relationships naturally change over time, if you have ever experienced a toxic relationship, you may feel as though you have lost yourself says Hannah.

"Sadly, I can relate to this. I had a toxic friendship for several years. I couldn't see it for what it was. Despite people telling me my friend wasn't there to support me and made everything about them, I constantly defended them.

"I sacrificed my personal boundaries to help them but the relationship between us changed. We both had different life circumstances and had grown apart.

"I couldn't accept this at first and it was very painful to acknowledge. Once I did, I began to see the relationship for what it was and begin to heal. For my own preservation, I distanced myself from the friendship and in doing so felt a weight lifted off my shoulders."

If you find yourself in a toxic relationship, I advise you to do what feels right for you, said Hannah. "It's not as simple as walking away and not looking back. The most important person is you and caring for yourself where possible.

"You can still try to put healthy boundaries in place and surround yourself with people you love and who love and accept you unconditionally.

"If you are unsure if you are experiencing a toxic relationship or would like someone to talk too who is impartial, I am always here to support you. Please feel free to contact me, I offer a free initial consultation and can then book in counselling sessions with you after that if you decide to go ahead.

Counselling can be of a real benefit to anyone struggling with a toxic relationship. It can help you to gain a good understanding of your circumstances, build self-confidence and allow much needed time for self-care.

Hannah has also set up a group a parental anxiety group, which starts next Tuesday, to help mums and dads going through any anxieties they may have.

"As a mum and experienced counsellor, I am passionate about this group and have had amazing feedback about it so far.

"All my details are on the flyer attached please feel free to contact me if you or anyone you know may be interested in booking on, I'll be more than happy to answer any questions you have."

You can contact Hannah by visiting her website, calling her on: 07768198184, or emailing: [email protected]. 

If it wasn't for our sponsors like Hannah Bolton Counselling, our news site would not be possible. Thank you. 

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