Romantic relationships can be the most incredible, uplifting, wonderful thing on planet Earth. Unfortunately, they can also be, well, just the opposite. Sometimes, you can get so deep into a relationship that you become blinded by love that you don’t see the red flags that your relationship is heading down an unhealthy path.

So, how do you know if you’re in an unhealthy relationship? What are the warning signs you need to watch out for?

The following are just some of the signs you might be in an unhealthy relationship.

1. You Can’t Be The Real You

It’s a major red flag if you don’t feel comfortable around your partner. If you’re constantly censoring yourself or not being who you truly are, deep down in your bones, this can be a major problem. You should never have to be anyone but yourself, ever. No matter what.

2. Your Partner Talks Down To You

Now, it’s one thing if it’s all in fun and jokes are thrown back and forth between the two of you; a little witty banter can be good for a relationship. But if your partner is saying negative things about you and telling you that you’re not good enough (or even just simply makes you feel that way), this will be an ongoing struggle for you.

3. Your Connection Is Purely Physical

Look, sex is important. However, if your relationship is solely based on physical relations, this might be a problem. If you’re okay with it and know exactly what you signed up for, that’s one thing. But if you’re in what you think is a “serious” relationship that feels like it’s just about sex, take a minute to think if that’s what you really want.

4. You’re Always Suspicious

Feeling constantly worried, anxious or jealous is a sign of an unhealthy relationship. Trust is so extremely important in a relationship, and you should feel confident that what your partner says is the truth. If you’re always worried about where he is or what he’s doing or who he’s with, that’s an issue. If he works with a female, for example, and you feel jealous, this is not healthy. Is there a reason you’re feeling this way? Think about it.

5. You Can’t Be Open With One Another

Communication is equally as important as trust. If you and your partner can’t communicate, that can become a major problem, too. Whether something small or big, being able to open up and discuss and communicate is a huge part of a healthy relationship.

As a disclaimer, I’m not a licensed therapist, so if you feel you might be in an unhealthy or toxic relationship, maybe look into couples’ therapy. I’m all about therapy! Or, you might recognize that the relationship simply isn’t worth saving, which is okay, too. The important thing is to regularly check in and give an unbiased look at your relationship to see if things are on the right track for a happy, healthy partnership.

You may also be interested in Relationship Reality Check: How To See Through The Haze Of New Love