Warning signs in a relationship
A list of behaviours that are not a matter of taste but a reason for caution.
What it’s for
In the first flush of love a great deal gets explained away as care or passion. A written list, made in a calm state, is more reliable than judgement at the peak.
What to watch for
- Control: checking your phone, deciding about your time, money, appearance.
- Isolation: gradually pushing away friends and family.
- Sowing doubt in your memory and judgement.
- Rapid escalation: big promises and commitments within weeks.
- Punishment by silence, or outbursts followed by an apology and a repetition.
Where to get help
In cases of violence: the Slovenian SOS helpline 080 11 55 (24 hours), police 113.
See also
Exposure ladder
A graded list of situations you avoid — from the easiest to the hardest.
Signs of being overloaded
Your own list of the signs by which you recognise you're going over the edge — before you do.
The feelings wheel
A list of feelings in three rings — from four basic ones to precise shades, so you find the right word.
