When it comes to love, it can completely cloud our judgment. It’s easy to ignore red flags or make excuses for certain behaviors when you’re crazy about someone. The problem is, when it comes to being in an unhealthy relationship, certain issues shouldn’t be ignored.

Cheating
When it comes to cheating, I like to place it into two separate categories: emotional cheating and physical cheating. Emotional cheating involves talking, texting and hanging out with someone to an inappropriate level.

Physical cheating can be anything from kissing to actually sleeping with someone. Not only is this extremely hurtful but it also is a health concern. Once your relationship is no longer monogamous, the risk of contracting an STD increases.

Both forms break a huge amount of trust in any relationship. Chances are, even if you do forgive them, they will cheat again. As the saying goes, “Once a cheater, always a cheater.” It’s best just to move on and find someone who loves and respects you enough to be faithful to you.

Substance abuse
If your loved one is abusing alcohol or drugs there is only so much you can do to help them. When someone is battling addiction it becomes much bigger than you and your relationship.

While it is admirable to try to help them, there comes a time when you are fighting a losing battle. You can’t help someone who doesn’t want to help themselves. Step back and take yourself out of the equation. It may hurt but it’s safer and healthier for you in the long run.

Domestic abuse
Any sort of abuse is inexcusable. If your partner is controlling, threatens you or is demeaning and cruel, you are being emotionally abused. If your partner is hitting you, punching you or harming your body in any way, you are being physically abused.

Abusive relationships are often hard to get out of and are very unhealthy to stay in. If you are being abused in any way, please seek help. Find a person you can confide in or call the Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE. No one should be afraid of or harmed by the person they are with.

Unhealthy relationships can be damaging to you and your health. If you find yourself struggling with an unhealthy relationship or getting over one, please don’t hesitate to talk to someone. UA has its own counseling center for students in Simmons Hall that is relatively free.