We all experience a mix of love and frustration with our family, and we know you can agree. There are moments when we want to shower our loved ones with affection, yet those same people sometimes bring us to the brink of tearing our hair out in frustration.

However, there are some relatives who bring toxicity into our lives, and it is important to maintain distance from them.

In the past, Boomers and Gen X often struggled to set boundaries with toxic relatives, suffering much in silence. Millennials started to take a stand and assert themselves, but it’s Gen Z that’s really changing the game. They’re setting new standards for mental health and wellness by refusing to tolerate toxic behavior and prioritizing their own peace.

Dr Gaurav Gupta, Gurugram-based psychiatrist and co-founder of Emoniids (a mental health start-up), said, “In the Indian family system, loyalty and maintaining relationships are considered very important, often regardless of how the person is treated. However, the younger generation, driven by growing awareness about mental health and personal well-being, is challenging this notion. They understand that tolerating toxic behaviour is harmful and prioritise self-preservation over traditional obligations.” india today,

Agreeing with this, Dr. Kriti Anand, Psychiatry Consultant at Paras Health, Panchkula, says that financial and social independence also allows the younger generation to make decisions that prioritise their well-being.

Furthermore, global exposure to cultures that respect personal boundaries influences younger generations to adopt similar practices, promoting a more individualistic and self-care oriented mindset.

Why is it important to cut ties with toxic relatives?

“It is very important to break ties with toxic relatives, as their manipulative behaviour, which includes gaslighting, selective support, and emotional manipulation, can have a profound impact on your mental health, confidence, and overall well-being,” says Dr Sukriti Rex, principal psychologist and researcher at Evolve (a health-tech startup).

She says that setting boundaries and removing these individuals from your life reduces the constant stress and anxiety caused by toxic relationships, prioritizing your own needs restores self-confidence, and emotional energy is redirected toward more positive and satisfying relationships.

Additionally, this step can help you recover from emotional abuse and trauma, allowing you to prioritize your health and happiness over tolerating unacceptable behavior.

essential for mental health protection

Dr. Gupta explains that toxic relatives can have a serious impact on your mental health, causing anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem.

Constant negativity can destroy your sense of self-esteem and create an environment of constant stress.

Know the signs

“Identifying a toxic relative involves recognizing their specific behaviors and patterns that negatively impact your health,” says Dr. Anand.

• Key signs of toxic behaviour include manipulation, where they frequently make you feel guilty to get their way, and lack of support, where they constantly put you down or criticise you.
• Toxic relatives are often self-centered, show little empathy for emotions, are unreliable, and break promises or commitments.
• They may also display jealousy or resentment toward your accomplishments, try to control your life decisions, and generally emit negative energy, leaving you feeling drained and bad about yourself after the interaction.

Doctors say that besides affecting your mental health, toxic relatives also have a negative effect can ruin other relationships By spreading negativity and creating conflict in your social circle.

• Their behavior can affect your attitudes and your relationships with others, making it difficult to maintain positive relationships.
• Toxic relatives can also isolate you from other supportive relationships, weakening your support network.
• Their actions may create distrust and conflict among family or friends, causing further tension in your social relationships.
• The impact of their toxicity can undermine your ability to trust and connect with others, having a widespread effect on your social and emotional well-being.

Let’s talk about how to get rid of them

• Recognize and accept that this relationship is toxic and harmful to your health.
• Clearly define what behaviors you will no longer tolerate and communicate these boundaries directly and firmly.
• Gradually reduce the conversation. Avoid unnecessary conversations and meet only when it is very important.
• Talk to trusted friends or a mental health professional about your decision. They can give you emotional support and practical advice.
• Toxic people may resist you or try to manipulate you to maintain your relationship. So, stick to your decision.
• Engage in activities that boost your mental and emotional health. This will help you recover from the negative effects of a toxic relationship.
• In extreme cases, it may be necessary to cut off all contact altogether. This includes blocking phone numbers, social media accounts, and avoiding physical contact.

do not forget…

Dr. Rex says, “When dealing with toxic relatives, it’s important to prioritize your own well-being and not internalize their behavior. Seeking help from trusted friends, a therapist, or a support group can provide a much-needed outlet and validate your experiences.”

It’s important not to get involved in their toxic patterns or try to reason with them, as this can cause the cycle to continue.

It’s essential to maintain perspective by reminding yourself that their behavior reflects their own problems and not your worth. Remember that patience, self-compassion, and a commitment to personal growth and healing are key when navigating these challenging relationships.

Breaking ties with toxic relatives is a difficult but important process for mental health and overall happiness. Work at it with determination and support to create a healthier environment for yourself. Although it’s common to feel guilty or doubt your decision, remind yourself that it’s a valid and necessary step to protect your well-being.