20 Things a Toxic Partner Will Make You Feel

It’s an emotional rollercoaster — but you’ll eventually grow from it.

Karen Nimmo
Published in
4 min readJan 17, 2021

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Image by Free-Photos from Pixabay

“Don’t hold your breath for anyone…” — Erin Hanson

All relationships have their challenges.

Some relationships fall into the difficult camp. And others are just plain toxic.

Here’s a guide to the emotional rollercoaster you’ll go through when you’re in a relationship with someone who has toxic or personality disordered thinking and behaviours.

Read it, knowing you can — and will — be okay on the other side. And, if you are on the other side, read it to validate all that you’ve been through.

1. Fascinating.

In the beginning they’ll be so, so interested in you. They’ll hang on to every word that drops from your lips, they’ll want ALL of your time, they’ll make you feel like the most fascinating person on earth. It’s incredibly seductive; don’t beat up on yourself for falling for it. You’re not alone: Many smart, secure people have been suckered by a toxic partner.

2. Surprised.

Toxic people can’t hold the mask up forever — actually, not even for very long. The first time you see a glimpse of their true…

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Karen Nimmo

Clinical psychologist, author of 4 books. Editor of On the Couch: Practical psychology for health and happiness. karen@onthecouch.co.nz