{
  "id": 12430244,
  "title": "How to spot a toxic partner and when it’s time to walk away",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/10/06/how-to-spot-a-toxic-partner-and-when-its-time-to-walk-away",
  "topic": "culture",
  "section": "Culture",
  "published": "2026-10-06T17:14:52.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Adom Online",
    "slug": "adom-online",
    "url": "https://www.adomonline.com/how-to-spot-a-toxic-partner-and-when-its-time-to-walk-away/"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Recognizing a toxic partner and knowing when to leave the relationship is crucial for one's well-being. At the beginning of a relationship, everything may seem perfect, with frequent communication, attention to details, and feelings of specialness. However, as time goes on, the relationship can deteriorate. Couples may notice that jokes turn into insults, and concerns evolve into controlling behavior. Friends who were once considered supportive become \"bad influences,\" and the partner starts questioning every aspect of the relationship. Adofoli, a counselor, advises paying attention to how a potential partner treats others. A partner's behavior towards waiters, friends, family, and strangers can reveal their true character. If someone is kind only to the person they desire to be with, it is essential to question whether they will always treat others the same way. Toxic relationships are complex because the person causing harm may also be loving, funny, and apologizing later. Manipulation, such as gaslighting, can make it difficult for the victim to trust their feelings and memories. Gaslighting involves making the victim question their own perception of reality, leading to self-doubt. As control increases, victims may lose their support system, as the toxic partner convinces them that friends and family do not care about them. This isolation can make leaving the relationship seem impossible. Fear of the unknown, such as financial instability or emotional distress, can trap victims, making them doubt their ability to cope alone. The decision to leave a toxic relationship is not based on a specific time frame but rather on recognizing the persistent harm caused by the partner. Leaving should not be dismissed as simply enduring relationship problems. Physical violence should never be justified, even if the abuser apologizes afterward. Healing takes time, and some people may grapple with the decision for years. Ultimately, recognizing the signs of a toxic relationship and seeking support from trusted individuals is crucial in regaining control and prioritizing one's well-being.",
  "summary": "Sometimes, the person you fall in love with is not the person you eventually find yourself living with. At the beginning, everything can feel almost perfect. They call often, pay attention to the little things, make you feel special and seem willing to do anything to keep you happy. Then, slowly, things begin to change. […]",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}