How to Avoid Unhealthy People

Knowing when to say "enough is enough" is healthy.

Health encompasses many forms in people. Most people might think of health as a term that deems them physically fit, however, health is also a state of mind and lifestyle. There are times when staying away from people who are unhealthy for you may be the wisest choice you can make for your overall vitality. Discernment, wisdom and decision-making abilities are all tools you can use to help you avoid unhealthy people and relationships.

Things You'll Need

• time and wisdom
• better decision making skills
• discernment

Instructions

1. Figure out how to discern what is unhealthy. People all go through times in life when they do not make wise choices, but choosing to make better decisions in your relationships is not only a sign of growth, but wisdom. Unhealthy people can take on many forms, such as those who misuse drugs or alcohol, are abusive in nature verbally/physically/emotionally, unstable mentally, steal, lie or rage in anger, along with many other behaviors. These unhealthy behaviors show up in a variety of ways and can surface at any time.

2. Know your weaknesses when it comes to relationships. If you know that you have a soft and tender heart for broken individuals, then keep in mind that you will tend to attract those types of personalities into your life. Nothing is wrong with being there for hurting people -- however, you have to know your weaknesses and not allow the vulnerability to strike a chord in your heart that will give you an unnecessary tie to that person. It will become unhealthy to you if you cross that boundary.

3. You may need to put some distance between you and unhealthy individuals. There is nothing wrong with moving to a new area and starting over if you have to get away from unhealthy people or a situation.

4. Stay committed to changing your future. You have made up your mind that you do not want to have relationships with unhealthy people who have hurt you, and you have to stick to your guns no matter what it takes. These days will be some of the hardest you will have to face, but do it for your own well-being. You may need to make some hard choices, for example: blocking a phone call or changing your contact information. These things you might have to do are difficult and may feel foreign, but you have to make a choice regarding how you live your life and what types of people you want surrounding you.

Tips & Warnings

• Setting clear boundaries is a healthy way to have relationships.

• If you ever have been abused or feel threatened, you need to call the proper authorities.

• Do not hesitate to make the tough decision to leave a relationship even if you're scared -- you have to do what is best for your safety and health.

References

• Relationship Sharing: How to Avoid Unhealthy Relationships
• Relationship Counseling Center: 7 Unhealthy Relationship Patterns to Avoid

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish