215 Toxic Relationship Quotes To Bring You Peace

Recognizing the signs of a toxic relationship can be challenging, but sometimes a powerful quote can help put things into perspective. In this article, we’ll explore a collection of toxic relationship quotes.

These quotes can resonate deeply, reflecting your feelings and experiences in ways you might not have been able to express yourself. By understanding these quotes, you can gain insights into your situation and find the strength to make positive changes. Keep reading to discover quotes that may resonate with your own experiences and help you see things more clearly.

Toxic relationship quotes

“Do not hold your breath for anyone, do not wish your lungs to be still, it may delay the cracks from spreading, but eventually they will. Sometimes to keep yourself together you must allow yourself to leave, even if breaking your own heart is what it takes to let you breathe.” — Erin Hanson
“Toxic people attach themselves like cinder blocks tied to your ankles, and then invite you for a swim in their poisoned waters.” — John Mark Green
“Toxic relationships are dangerous to your health; they will literally kill you. Stress shortens your lifespan. Even a broken heart can kill you.” — Bryant McGill

“When you notice someone does something toxic the first time, don’t wait for the second time before you address it or cut them off.” — Shahida Arabi
“MISERABLE Release the toxic and infectious- Spreaders of misery, Souls destroying souls- And poisonous liars. Awaken from the hallucinations- And take back your heart. Reclaim your self-esteem- And leave the toxic be.” — Giorge Leedy
“Fire False Friends as early as possible. Do it before they dig out the dream seeds you’ve planted! The earlier, the better; the quicker, the safer!” — Israelmore Ayivor

“I seem to be torn between ‘I wish we’d met earlier’ and ‘I wish we’d never met’.” — Ahmed Mostafa
“Forgiveness is a personal process that doesn’t depend on us having direct contact with the people who have hurt us.” — Sharon Salzberg
“Don’t confuse “familiar” with “acceptable”. Toxic relationships can fool you like that.” — Steve Maraboli

“Narcissists are very retaliative if they believe another has achieved what they desire, exposed their insecurities, or refused to be under their control.” — Lorraine Nilon
“You think you can change a guy, that he’ll be different with you, that you’ll finally be the one to tame him… and before you know it, you’re alone in your underwear at nine o’clock on a Saturday night, crying to Adele songs, eating ice cream straight from the gallon, and wondering what the hell is the matter with you that you fell for such a goddamned man-child, after he explicitly warned you not to.” — Julie Johnson
“Nobody goes no contact with a loving, caring, gentle, safe family. They end toxic relationships because all the other alternatives were exhausted and unsuccessful. They broke connections to abusive people because it was their last resort.” — Dana Arcuri

“Be aware, beware what lies, what lies? … behind the light… Some people are highly skilled manipulators. And some people’s whole lives are built on lies. They can cause a huge amount of damage to others.” — Efrat Cybulkiewicz
“A man only uses the term ‘bitch’ when his fragile little ego becomes threatened by a woman’s intelligence.” — Deanna L. Lawlis
“Don’t Let The Devil Hear You Weeping” — Stewart Stafford

“Just because you’re always willing to work harder doesn’t mean you should.” — Vironika Wilde
“It is difficult for those to understand what they put you through when they still refuse to stop the toxic cycle. They have decided it is best to keep the toxic ball rolling downhill to you. Let it continue to roll right on past you and don’t play their games.” — Christine E. Szymanski
“Stop being confused… Let this sink in. People who are malignantly toxic do not LOVE; they USE. Replace the word, “Love”, with the word, “Use”, and you’ll clear up the confusion between their words and their actions.” — Steve Maraboli

“There can be times,” she says, slowly, “when you’re vulnerable. It leaves you open to . . . the wrong things. The wrong people. The wrong people, making the wrong choices.” — Laurel Flores Fantauzzo
“I’d throw kisses while they’d throw banana peels at my feet… Trained monkeys! Still, I’d wrap myself around their thumbs… when they weren’t sucking them! -from ‘Jane of The Jungle” — Casey Renee Kiser
“She thinks he represents security. She thinks he might change and be kind to her. She pities him; that enslaves her.” — Elizabeth Harrower

“Control is the product of your disabled will. It is an attempt to will what cannot be willed. You cannot change another person. You cannot fix your parents, spouse, lover or children. You cannot control their lives or their pain.” — John Bradshaw
“I want to love him but I often find myself wishing he could just be an asshole all the time. This way I wouldn’t have all these inner battles with myself. I learn to navigate my way through shattered expectations and constant disappointments by putting an impenetrable wall up between us.” — Julia Fox
“She may have a boyfriend that she loves, but she likes to believe that as long as he doesn’t know, it won’t hurt him. And as far as she’s concerned, for her, it doesn’t mean anything at all; it’s just a thing…” — Eib Shocky

“People will rarely apologize for how they treat you. They’re much more likely to criticize you for how you react to their treatment.” — Steve Maraboli
Every time I let my guard down, I’m quickly reminded why my defenses were up in the first place. It’s nearly impossible for me to flourish in an inconsistent hostile environment, especially when my own growth is so intertwined with his. I’m forced to face the unsettling reality that the people who are supposed to protect us are sometimes the same people we need protection from.” — Julia Fox
“Who are you?” Evangeline whispered. Apollo brought her hand to his lips and pressed a kiss to her knuckles that made her shiver. “I am the one who will never let anyone harm you again”.” — Stephanie Garber

“When you get out of it, you realize how toxic it actually was.” — Steve Maraboli
“Letting go means to come to the realization that some people are part of your history, but not a part of your destiny.” — Steve Maraboli
“Cry. Forgive. Learn. Move on. Let your tears water the seeds of your future happiness.” — Steve Maraboli

“You can spend many years thinking you’re worthless. But you’re not worthless. You’re underappreciated. Let go of those who keep weighing you down.” — Steve Maraboli
“If they do it often, it’s not a mistake; it’s just their behavior. Sometimes trying to fix them, breaks YOU.” — Steve Maraboli
“Letting go of toxic people is an act of self-care.” — Karen Salmansohn

“A bad relationship is like standing on broken glass, if you stay you will keep hurting. If you walk away, you will hurt but eventually, you will heal.” — Autumn Kohler
“Don’t be a sacrificial lamb on the altar of his rage. Don’t play the martyr to his hate. You can never save someone by letting them destroy you. That’s not love, it’s relational suicide. Save yourself instead. Get out while there’s still time.” — John Mark Green
“You make me feel like a firefly. Trapped in a bell jar; starved for love.” — Ayushee Ghoshal

“When you notice someone else’s toxicity, it’s time to move on.” — Bryant McGill
“You don’t let go of a bad relationship because you stop caring about them. You let go because you start caring about yourself.” — Charles Orlando
“You create more space in your life when you turn your excess baggage into garbage.” — Chinonye J. Chidolue

“A bad relationship can do that, can make you doubt everything good you ever felt about yourself.” — Dionne Warwick
“We teach people how to treat us.” — Dr. Phil
“It’s better to be healthy alone than sick with someone else.” — Dr. Phil

“Love should not make you feel like walking on eggshells. You take your power back by letting people go” — Emma Xu
“Let things come and go. Stay calm, don’t let anything disturb your peace, and carry on.” — Germany Kent
“When dealing with toxic people, always choose distance over disrespect. In order to reach your highest potential, it is imperative that you remove all negative people from your life.” — Germany Kent

“As you begin to walk away from negativity and toxic people, it will inspire you to embrace positivity and your life will become more rewarding and fulfilling.” — Germany Kent
“Life is too short to hang around people who are causing you to compromise. Pulling you down. Your time is too valuable to waste with people who don’t have a dream. People that aren’t going anywhere. You don’t need to make some big announcements, but little by little, you should spend less time with them.” — Joel Osteen
“There are people who bring you down by just being them. They need not do anything.” — Malebo Sephodi

“No partner in a love relationship… should feel that he has to give up an essential part of himself to make it viable.” — May Sarton
“Don’t settle for a relationship that won’t let you be yourself.” — Oprah Winfrey“

You don’t have to stay in a toxic relationship just because there was once love there. The person who doesn’t value you is blocking you from the one who will.” — Robert Tew
“It’s one thing if a person owns up to their behavior and makes an effort to change. But if a person disregards your feelings, ignores your boundaries, and continues to treat you in a harmful way, they need to go.” — Daniell Koepke

“You don’t ever have to feel guilty about removing toxic people from your life.” — Daniell Koepke
“They kill your positive spirit and play with your mind and emotions. The only cure is to let them go.” — Dennisse Lisseth
“You can love them, forgive them, want good things for them… but still move on without them.” — Mandy Hale

“Toxic people will pollute everything around them. Don’t hesitate. Fumigate.” — Mandy Hale
“It takes a heartbreak to shake us awake and help us see we deserve so much more than we’re settling for.” — Mandy Hale
“At some point, you have to realize that some people can stay in your heart but not in your life.” — Tara Westover

“The moment you realize you deserve better, everything will change.” — Unknown
“When you leave behind the familiar, you create the conditions necessary for you to succeed.” — Les Brown
“If you walked away from a toxic relationship, you won. You’ve reclaimed your peace and freedom.” — Unknown

“Love yourself enough to set boundaries. Your time and energy are precious.” — Anna Taylor
“Respect yourself enough to say ‘I deserve peace,’ and walk away from people or things that prevent you from attaining it.” — Jerico Silvers
“Never love something so much that you can’t let go of it.” — Ginni Rometty

“Healthy love never requires you to sacrifice your dreams, your dignity, or your happiness.” — Vironika Tugaleva
“Toxic people spread negativity. Loving people spread love and peace.” — Debasish Mridha
“Healing from a toxic relationship isn’t about forgetting; it’s about forgiving yourself for loving the wrong person.” — Unknown

“The first step to loving yourself is to stop allowing people to behave with you in a way that you do not love.” — Suzy Kassem
“Never regret. If it’s good, it’s wonderful. If it’s bad, it’s an experience.” — Victoria Holt
“Sometimes the hardest part isn’t letting go but rather learning to start over.” — Nicole Sobon

“The only thing more exhausting than being in a toxic relationship is pretending you’re not in one.” — Unknown
“Some of the most poisonous people come disguised as friends and family.” — Unknown
“A toxic person will never change. They just change victims.” — Unknown

“What’s broken is broken — and I’d rather remember it as it was than mend it and see the broken places as long as I lived.” — Margaret Mitchell
“Relationships are worth fighting for, but you can’t be the only one fighting.” — Unknown
“I will not allow anyone to walk in my mind with dirty feet.” — Mahatma Gandhi

“You survived what you thought would kill you. Now straighten your crown and move on like the queen you are.” — Unknown
“When someone shows you their true colors, believe them the first time.” — Maya Angelou
“You are allowed to terminate toxic relationships. You are allowed to walk away from people who hurt you.” — Daniell Koepke

“Stand up for yourself. Never let anyone convince you that you don’t matter.” — Unknown
“Forgiveness is a gift you give yourself.” — Tony Robbins
“Letting go doesn’t mean that you don’t care about someone anymore. It’s just realizing that the only person you really have control over is yourself.” — Deborah Reber

“Holding on is believing that there’s only a past; letting go is knowing that there’s a future.” — Daphne Rose Kingma
“Forgive others, not because they deserve forgiveness, but because you deserve peace.” — Jonathan Lockwood Huie
“Let go of what has passed. Let go of what may come. Let go of what is happening now. Don’t try to figure anything out. Don’t try to make anything happen. Relax, right now, and rest.” — Tilopa

“Embrace uncertainty. Some of the most beautiful chapters in our lives won’t have a title until much later.” — Bob Goff
“You can’t change someone who doesn’t see an issue in their actions.” — Unknown
“Growth is painful. Change is painful. But, nothing is as painful as staying stuck where you do not belong.” — N. R. Narayana Murthy

“Don’t let yesterday take up too much of today.” — Will Rogers
“You are strong when you know your weaknesses. You are beautiful when you appreciate your flaws. You are wise when you learn from your mistakes.” — Unknown
“Believe in yourself and all that you are. Know that there is something inside you that is greater than any obstacle.” — Christian D. Larson

“Strength doesn’t come from what you can do. It comes from overcoming the things you once thought you couldn’t.” — Rikki Rogers
“You may have to fight a battle more than once to win it.” — Margaret Thatcher
“Resilience is knowing that you are the only one that has the power and the responsibility to pick yourself up.” — Mary Holloway

“You are not a drop in the ocean. You are the entire ocean in a drop.” — Rumi
“To be yourself in a world that is constantly trying to make you something else is the greatest accomplishment.” — Ralph Waldo Emerson
“You are enough just as you are.” — Meghan Markle

“Becoming acquainted with yourself is a price well worth paying for the love that will really address you.” — Rainer Maria Rilke
“The effect of toxic people is never simply contained. It’s insidious, penetrating, and destructively far-reaching.” — Unknown
“You can’t change a toxic person, but you can change how you deal with them.” — Unknown

“Don’t set yourself on fire to keep others warm.” — Penny Reid
“People appear like angels until you hear them speak. You must not rush to judge people by the color of their cloaks, but by the content of their words!” — Israelmore Ayivor
“The art of being happy lies in the power of extracting happiness from common things.” — Henry Ward Beecher

“Happiness is not by chance, but by choice.” — Jim Rohn
“Let no one ever come to you without leaving better and happier.” — Mother Teresa
“Never be bullied into silence. Never allow yourself to be made a victim.” — Harvey Fierstein

“Respect yourself enough to walk away from anything that no longer serves you, grows you, or makes you happy.” — Robert Tew
“No one can make you feel inferior without your consent.” — Eleanor Roosevelt
“Dignity does not consist in possessing honors, but in deserving them.” — Aristotle

“Self-respect is the cornerstone of all virtue.” — John Herschel
“The most important thing in life is to learn how to give out love, and to let it come in.” — Morrie Schwartz
“The most powerful relationship you will ever have is the relationship with yourself.” — Diane von Furstenberg

“The heart will break, but broken live on.” — Lord Byron
“Love yourself first and everything else falls into line.” — Lucille Ball
“Healing takes courage, and we all have courage, even if we have to dig a little to find it.” — Tori Amos

“Your past mistakes are meant to guide you, not define you.” — Ziad K. Abdelnour
“Your present circumstances don’t determine where you can go; they merely determine where you start.” — Nido Qubein
“Your time is limited, don’t waste it living someone else’s life.” — Steve Jobs

“Turn your wounds into wisdom.” — Oprah Winfrey
“Wisdom comes from experience. Experience is often a result of lack of wisdom.” — Terry Pratchett
“We don’t receive wisdom; we must discover it for ourselves after a journey that no one can take for us or spare us.” — Marcel Proust

“Peace is the result of retraining your mind to process life as it is, rather than as you think it should be.” — Wayne W. Dyer
“Inner peace begins the moment you choose not to allow another person or event to control your emotions.” — Pema Chödrön
“Learning to ignore things is one of the great paths to inner peace.” — Robert J. Sawyer

“You find peace not by rearranging the circumstances of your life, but by realizing who you are at the deepest level.” — Eckhart Tolle
“Do not let the behavior of others destroy your inner peace.” — Dalai Lama
“You must be strong enough to know that love will come to you when you are ready. You must be strong enough to know when to say goodbye, and know that letting go is not weak.” — Marisa Donnelly

“Sometimes, the only way to save your sanity is to let go of a toxic relationship. Your well-being is worth more than holding on to something harmful.” — Sharon Salzberg
“People inspire you, or they drain you. Pick them wisely.” — Hans F. Hansen
“Don’t let a toxic person change how good you are.” — Karen A. Baquiran

“Sometimes the person you’re most loyal to is the one who needs to go.” — Tony Gaskins
“Don’t allow someone who did you wrong to rob you of a better future by holding on to what happened.” — Rachel Wolchin
“I will not try to convince you to love me, to respect me, to commit to me. I deserve better than that; I am better than that. Goodbye!” — Steve Maraboli

“Releasing toxic people from our lives is only allowing room for a new flow of positivity. You don’t have to toxic people for them to grow.” — Chinonye J. Chidolue
“If the person you’re in a relationship with is unfaithful or abusive, it’s not a sign that they don’t love you. It’s a sign that they don’t love themselves enough to treat you right.” — Cassandra Clare
“Sometimes we have to let go of what’s killing us, even if it’s killing us to let go.” — Unknown

“When you leave a toxic relationship, you’re not leaving something behind. You’re moving towards something. Towards healing, happiness, and a fulfilling life.” — Karen Salmansohn
“The first step towards getting somewhere is to decide that you are not going to stay where you are.” — J.P. Morgan
“Removing yourself from a toxic relationship is self-care, and that is not selfish.” — Charles Orlando

“Sometimes, your heart needs more time to accept what your mind already knows.” — Unknown
“Don’t let toxic people infect your day. Acknowledge the infection and work to heal it, but don’t let the person who caused it hold any power in your life.” — Danielle Koepke
“Toxic relationships are like glass, sometimes it’s better to leave them broken than hurt yourself trying to put it back together.” — Unknown

“When someone shows you their true colors, don’t try to paint a different picture.” — Tony A. Gaskins Jr.
“Some people are going to leave, but that’s not the end of your story. That’s the end of their part in your story.” — Faraaz Kazi
“You don’t have to feel guilty about removing toxic people from your life. It doesn’t matter whether someone is a relative, romantic interest, employer, childhood friend, or new acquaintance. You don’t have to make room for people who cause you pain or make you feel small.” — Cheryl Strayed

“Don’t let negative and toxic people rent space in your head. Raise the rent and kick them out.” — Robert Tew
“Toxic people will not be changed by the alchemy of your kindness. Yes, be kind, but move on swiftly and let life be their educator.” — Brendon Burchard
“What’s broken is broken, and I’d rather remember it as it was than mend it and see the broken places as long as I lived.” — Margaret Mitchell

“Embrace the courage to walk away from anything that doesn’t serve you, grow you, or make you happy. Your worth isn’t negotiable.” — Unknown
“Love should not leave you feeling empty, questioning your worth. It should breathe life into your soul.” — Unknown
“Toxic relationships are like quicksand. The more you struggle, the deeper you sink.” — Anna Ballard

“A toxic partner is a poison that seeps into your veins, slowly eroding your spirit and self-esteem.” — Emma Williams
“True love doesn’t tear you apart; it builds you up, piece by piece.” — Sophia Thompson
“In toxic relationships, apologies become weapons and forgiveness becomes a trap.” — James Adams

“The toxic dance of control and manipulation leaves scars that are invisible but excruciatingly painful.” — Rachel Stevens
“Toxic love thrives on power imbalances, leaving one person shattered while the other feeds on their brokenness.” — Mia Carter
“You deserve someone who lifts you up, not someone who brings you down in the name of love.” — Jessica Walker
“Toxic relationships are a toxic cocktail of insecurity, control, and emotional abuse.” — Ethan Davis
“A toxic partner is an expert at disguising their poison as love, making it difficult to escape their clutches.” — Lily Anderson
“Toxic relationships are like tornadoes; they leave a trail of destruction in their wake.” — Oliver Thompson
“Love should never require you to sacrifice your happiness or identity.” — Emily Adams
“Toxic relationships drain your energy, leaving you feeling depleted and empty.” — Grace Mitchell
“Toxicity creeps into relationships when respect and kindness are replaced with manipulation and cruelty.” — Daniel Cooper
“A toxic love story is one where control takes center stage, suffocating the freedom to be oneself.” — Hannah Green
“Toxic relationships are like walking through a field of broken glass; every step is painful, leaving scars that may never heal.” — Alex Turner
“In a toxic relationship, love is war where wounds outnumber victories.” — Sarah Wilson
“Toxic partners excel at making you doubt your worth, slowly eroding your confidence until you forget who you are.” — Noah Thompson
“Toxic love is an addiction that lures you in with glimpses of happiness, only to trap you in a cycle of pain.” — Isabella Garcia
“A toxic relationship is a constant battle for power, leaving both parties wounded and exhausted.” — Liam Anderson
“Love should be a sanctuary, not a battleground.” — Charlotte Davis
“Toxicity thrives in the darkness of silence; speak your truth and reclaim your light.” — Olivia Roberts
“In toxic relationships, the broken heart cries for freedom while the mind clings to the familiar pain.” — Matthew Williams
“Toxic relationships are the art of destruction disguised as love.” — Jessica Miller
“A toxic partner is like a puppeteer, manipulating your emotions and controlling your every move.” — Ethan Johnson
“Toxic relationships poison your perspective, distorting your understanding of what love should be.” — Grace Turner
“Love should be the lighthouse that guides you through the storm, not the storm itself.” — Sophia Roberts
“Toxicity infects relationships like a virus, spreading its destructive force with every interaction.” — Daniel Thompson
“In toxic relationships, the scars on your heart outlast the memories of joy.” — Emily Wilson
“A toxic love story is a tragedy in disguise, leaving shattered hearts in its wake.” — Benjamin Davis
“Toxic relationships thrive on chaos, leaving you emotionally battered and bruised.” — Lily Adams
“Love should build bridges, not walls. Toxic relationships construct walls that suffocate your spirit.” — Michael Thompson
“Healing begins when you realize that you deserve better than the toxicity that destroyed your peace of mind.” — Unknown
“Leaving a toxic relationship may be painful, but it is the first step towards reclaiming your happiness.” — Anna Ballard
“Sometimes, the most courageous thing you can do is walk away from the toxic love that held you captive.” — Emma Williams
“Moving on from a toxic relationship is an act of self-love and liberation.” — Sophia Thompson
“You are stronger than you realize. Letting go of toxic love is an affirmation of your inner strength.” — James Adams
“Release the chains of toxic love and embrace the freedom that comes with self-respect.” — Rachel Stevens
“Moving on from a toxic relationship is like shedding an old skin; painful, yet necessary for growth.” — Mia Carter
“The journey of healing begins when you choose yourself over toxic attachments.” — Jessica Walker
“Rise from the ashes of a toxic love story and embrace the beauty of self-discovery.” — Ethan Davis
“Leaving a toxic partner is not giving up; it is reclaiming your power and taking a stand for your well-being.” — Lily Anderson
“Break free from the chains of toxic love and pave your own path towards happiness.” — Oliver Thompson
“Moving on from a toxic relationship requires strength and resilience, but the rewards are immeasurable.” — Emily Adams
“In the aftermath of a toxic relationship, find solace in the knowledge that you are capable of rewriting your own story.” — Grace Mitchell
“Choosing yourself over a toxic partner is an act of self-preservation, an affirmation of your worth.” — Daniel Cooper
“Letting go of toxic love opens the door to new possibilities and allows you to rediscover your authentic self.” — Hannah Green
“Healing from a toxic relationship is a journey of self-compassion and self-reconstruction.” — Alex Turner
“Moving on from a toxic relationship requires cutting the ties that bind, even if it means letting go of what once was.” — Sarah Wilson
“Rebuilding yourself after a toxic relationship is an act of courage; embrace the opportunity for growth.” — Noah Thompson
“Moving on from toxic love is not a sign of weakness; it is a testament to your resilience and self-love.” — Isabella Garcia
“As you walk away from a toxic relationship, know that you are stepping into a future filled with boundless possibilities.” — Liam Anderson
“The journey of healing unveils the strength you never knew you had, allowing you to redefine your narrative.” — Charlotte Davis
“Release the weight of toxic love and let your wings unfold as you soar towards a brighter future.” — Olivia Roberts
“Moving on from a toxic relationship is not about forgetting; it’s about embracing the lessons and moving forward with wisdom.” — Matthew Williams
“In the aftermath of toxicity, find solace in the freedom to rediscover who you are and who you can become.” — Jessica Miller
“Letting go of toxic love is an act of self-preservation, paving the way for a future filled with genuine happiness.” — Ethan Johnson
“As you heal from a toxic relationship, remember that your scars are a testament to your strength, resilience, and capacity to love again.” — Grace Turner
“Moving on from a toxic relationship empowers you to rewrite your story and reclaim your happiness.” — Sophia Roberts
“The journey of healing allows you to transform your pain into power, turning your scars into a testimony of triumph.” — Daniel Thompson
“In the aftermath of toxicity, embrace the beauty of self-discovery and nurture the love and respect you deserve.” — Emily Wilson
“Setting healthy boundaries against negative minds is an act of self-love. Let abusers know the strength of your self-worth.” — Unknown
“You are not a rehab. It’s not your job to fix everyone.” — Unknown
“Some people don’t want to be fixed because being broken gets them attention.” — Unknown
“Mental abuse is much more painful than physical abuse because you are consumed by your own thoughts.” — Unknown
“At some point you have to realize that some people can stay in your heart but not in your life.” — Tara Westover
“It is better to break your own heart once than having someone breaking it every day.” — Unknown

What is toxic love?

Toxic love is when a relationship becomes harmful rather than supportive.

In a toxic relationship, one or both partners often display unhealthy behaviors like manipulation, control, or constant criticism. These actions can make the other person feel worthless, anxious, or depressed. There might be frequent arguments, emotional abuse, or even physical abuse.

Often, but not always, the toxic person is suffering from a personality disorder like BPD (Borderline Personality Disorder), NPD (Narcissistic Personality Disorder), or perhaps an avoidant or anxious attachment style.

In toxic love, there is usually a lack of mutual respect and trust. One partner might try to dominate or isolate the other from friends and family. This control can make the victim feel trapped and alone. Toxic love often involves a cycle of highs and lows, where good moments are followed by intense conflict. This instability can create confusion and emotional exhaustion.

Toxic relationships can also feature jealousy and possessiveness.

One partner might constantly accuse the other of infidelity or try to control their actions. Over time, this can erode self-esteem and confidence. Recognizing these signs is crucial for anyone experiencing toxic love. Understanding that these behaviors are not normal or acceptable is the first step toward seeking help and making positive changes.

Final Thoughts

Understanding toxic relationship quotes can help you recognize and validate your feelings.

These quotes often capture the pain, confusion, and frustration that come with toxic relationships. By reflecting on these words, you might find the strength to seek change or support. Remember, recognizing a toxic relationship is the first step toward healing.

Use these quotes as a reminder that you deserve healthy and respectful connections. I hope this article has provided you with insights and the courage to take positive steps forward.

Toxic relationship quotes

“Do not hold your breath for anyone, do not wish your lungs to be still, it may delay the cracks from spreading, but eventually they will. Sometimes to keep yourself together you must allow yourself to leave, even if breaking your own heart is what it takes to let you breathe.” — Erin Hanson

“Toxic people attach themselves like cinder blocks tied to your ankles, and then invite you for a swim in their poisoned waters.” — John Mark Green

“Toxic relationships are dangerous to your health; they will literally kill you. Stress shortens your lifespan. Even a broken heart can kill you.” — Bryant McGill

“When you notice someone does something toxic the first time, don’t wait for the second time before you address it or cut them off.” — Shahida Arabi

“MISERABLE Release the toxic and infectious- Spreaders of misery, Souls destroying souls- And poisonous liars. Awaken from the hallucinations- And take back your heart. Reclaim your self-esteem- And leave the toxic be.” — Giorge Leedy

“Fire False Friends as early as possible. Do it before they dig out the dream seeds you’ve planted! The earlier, the better; the quicker, the safer!” — Israelmore Ayivor

“I seem to be torn between ‘I wish we’d met earlier’ and ‘I wish we’d never met’.” — Ahmed Mostafa

“Forgiveness is a personal process that doesn’t depend on us having direct contact with the people who have hurt us.” — Sharon Salzberg

“Don’t confuse “familiar” with “acceptable”. Toxic relationships can fool you like that.” — Steve Maraboli

“Narcissists are very retaliative if they believe another has achieved what they desire, exposed their insecurities, or refused to be under their control.” — Lorraine Nilon

“Nobody goes no contact with a loving, caring, gentle, safe family. They end toxic relationships because all the other alternatives were exhausted and unsuccessful. They broke connections to abusive people because it was their last resort.” — Dana Arcuri

“Be aware, beware what lies, what lies? … behind the light… Some people are highly skilled manipulators. And some people’s whole lives are built on lies. They can cause a huge amount of damage to others.” — Efrat Cybulkiewicz

“A man only uses the term ‘bitch’ when his fragile little ego becomes threatened by a woman’s intelligence.” — Deanna L. Lawlis

“Don’t Let The Devil Hear You Weeping” — Stewart Stafford

“Just because you’re always willing to work harder doesn’t mean you should.” — Vironika Wilde

“It is difficult for those to understand what they put you through when they still refuse to stop the toxic cycle. They have decided it is best to keep the toxic ball rolling downhill to you. Let it continue to roll right on past you and don’t play their games.” — Christine E. Szymanski

“Stop being confused… Let this sink in. People who are malignantly toxic do not LOVE; they USE. Replace the word, “Love”, with the word, “Use”, and you’ll clear up the confusion between their words and their actions.” — Steve Maraboli

“There can be times,” she says, slowly, “when you’re vulnerable. It leaves you open to . . . the wrong things. The wrong people. The wrong people, making the wrong choices.” — Laurel Flores Fantauzzo

“I’d throw kisses while they’d throw banana peels at my feet… Trained monkeys! Still, I’d wrap myself around their thumbs… when they weren’t sucking them! -from ‘Jane of The Jungle” — Casey Renee Kiser

“She thinks he represents security. She thinks he might change and be kind to her. She pities him; that enslaves her.” — Elizabeth Harrower

“Control is the product of your disabled will. It is an attempt to will what cannot be willed. You cannot change another person. You cannot fix your parents, spouse, lover or children. You cannot control their lives or their pain.” — John Bradshaw

“She may have a boyfriend that she loves, but she likes to believe that as long as he doesn’t know, it won’t hurt him. And as far as she’s concerned, for her, it doesn’t mean anything at all; it’s just a thing…” — Eib Shocky

“People will rarely apologize for how they treat you. They’re much more likely to criticize you for how you react to their treatment.” — Steve Maraboli

“Who are you?” Evangeline whispered. Apollo brought her hand to his lips and pressed a kiss to her knuckles that made her shiver. “I am the one who will never let anyone harm you again”.” — Stephanie Garber

“When you get out of it, you realize how toxic it actually was.” — Steve Maraboli

“Letting go means to come to the realization that some people are part of your history, but not a part of your destiny.” — Steve Maraboli

“Cry. Forgive. Learn. Move on. Let your tears water the seeds of your future happiness.” — Steve Maraboli

“You can spend many years thinking you’re worthless. But you’re not worthless. You’re underappreciated. Let go of those who keep weighing you down.” — Steve Maraboli

“If they do it often, it’s not a mistake; it’s just their behavior. Sometimes trying to fix them, breaks YOU.” — Steve Maraboli

“Letting go of toxic people is an act of self-care.” — Karen Salmansohn

“A bad relationship is like standing on broken glass, if you stay you will keep hurting. If you walk away, you will hurt but eventually, you will heal.” — Autumn Kohler

“Don’t be a sacrificial lamb on the altar of his rage. Don’t play the martyr to his hate. You can never save someone by letting them destroy you. That’s not love, it’s relational suicide. Save yourself instead. Get out while there’s still time.” — John Mark Green

“You make me feel like a firefly. Trapped in a bell jar; starved for love.” — Ayushee Ghoshal

“When you notice someone else’s toxicity, it’s time to move on.” — Bryant McGill

“You don’t let go of a bad relationship because you stop caring about them. You let go because you start caring about yourself.” — Charles Orlando

“You create more space in your life when you turn your excess baggage into garbage.” — Chinonye J. Chidolue

“A bad relationship can do that, can make you doubt everything good you ever felt about yourself.” — Dionne Warwick

“We teach people how to treat us.” — Dr. Phil

“It’s better to be healthy alone than sick with someone else.” — Dr. Phil

“Love should not make you feel like walking on eggshells. You take your power back by letting people go” — Emma Xu

“Let things come and go. Stay calm, don’t let anything disturb your peace, and carry on.” — Germany Kent

“When dealing with toxic people, always choose distance over disrespect. In order to reach your highest potential, it is imperative that you remove all negative people from your life.” — Germany Kent

“As you begin to walk away from negativity and toxic people, it will inspire you to embrace positivity and your life will become more rewarding and fulfilling.” — Germany Kent

“There are people who bring you down by just being them. They need not do anything.” — Malebo Sephodi

“No partner in a love relationship… should feel that he has to give up an essential part of himself to make it viable.” — May Sarton

“Don’t settle for a relationship that won’t let you be yourself.” — Oprah Winfrey“

You don’t have to stay in a toxic relationship just because there was once love there. The person who doesn’t value you is blocking you from the one who will.” — Robert Tew

“It’s one thing if a person owns up to their behavior and makes an effort to change. But if a person disregards your feelings, ignores your boundaries, and continues to treat you in a harmful way, they need to go.” — Daniell Koepke

“You don’t ever have to feel guilty about removing toxic people from your life.” — Daniell Koepke

“They kill your positive spirit and play with your mind and emotions. The only cure is to let them go.” — Dennisse Lisseth

“You can love them, forgive them, want good things for them… but still move on without them.” — Mandy Hale

“Toxic people will pollute everything around them. Don’t hesitate. Fumigate.” — Mandy Hale

“It takes a heartbreak to shake us awake and help us see we deserve so much more than we’re settling for.” — Mandy Hale

“At some point, you have to realize that some people can stay in your heart but not in your life.” — Tara Westover

“The moment you realize you deserve better, everything will change.” — Unknown

“When you leave behind the familiar, you create the conditions necessary for you to succeed.” — Les Brown

“If you walked away from a toxic relationship, you won. You’ve reclaimed your peace and freedom.” — Unknown

“Love yourself enough to set boundaries. Your time and energy are precious.” — Anna Taylor

“Respect yourself enough to say ‘I deserve peace,’ and walk away from people or things that prevent you from attaining it.” — Jerico Silvers

“Never love something so much that you can’t let go of it.” — Ginni Rometty

“Healthy love never requires you to sacrifice your dreams, your dignity, or your happiness.” — Vironika Tugaleva

“Toxic people spread negativity. Loving people spread love and peace.” — Debasish Mridha

“Healing from a toxic relationship isn’t about forgetting; it’s about forgiving yourself for loving the wrong person.” — Unknown

“The first step to loving yourself is to stop allowing people to behave with you in a way that you do not love.” — Suzy Kassem

“Never regret. If it’s good, it’s wonderful. If it’s bad, it’s an experience.” — Victoria Holt

“Sometimes the hardest part isn’t letting go but rather learning to start over.” — Nicole Sobon

“The only thing more exhausting than being in a toxic relationship is pretending you’re not in one.” — Unknown

“Some of the most poisonous people come disguised as friends and family.” — Unknown

“A toxic person will never change. They just change victims.” — Unknown

“What’s broken is broken — and I’d rather remember it as it was than mend it and see the broken places as long as I lived.” — Margaret Mitchell

“Relationships are worth fighting for, but you can’t be the only one fighting.” — Unknown

“I will not allow anyone to walk in my mind with dirty feet.” — Mahatma Gandhi

“You survived what you thought would kill you. Now straighten your crown and move on like the queen you are.” — Unknown

“When someone shows you their true colors, believe them the first time.” — Maya Angelou

“You are allowed to terminate toxic relationships. You are allowed to walk away from people who hurt you.” — Daniell Koepke

“Stand up for yourself. Never let anyone convince you that you don’t matter.” — Unknown

“Forgiveness is a gift you give yourself.” — Tony Robbins

“Letting go doesn’t mean that you don’t care about someone anymore. It’s just realizing that the only person you really have control over is yourself.” — Deborah Reber

“Holding on is believing that there’s only a past; letting go is knowing that there’s a future.” — Daphne Rose Kingma