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Motherhood Life Balance

Toxic Parents 101: 15 Ways to Create Distance and Get Them Out Of Your Life 

ByVictoria Cornell November 9, 2023
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Dealing with toxic parents can be incredibly challenging. They often feel as though they are entitled to be a part of every decision. Or they make you feel like you are not seeing them enough or allowing them to see you or your children enough. But it’s essential to prioritize your own well-being and not try to please this type of parent. If you want to create some distance from a toxic parental relationship, here are 15 practical steps to guide you toward self-care and emotional health.

Recognize Toxic Behaviors

older woman yelling at younger woman
Image Credit_ Depositphotos Chai2523

The first step is to identify the toxic behaviors in your parent-child relationship. This can include emotional manipulation, excessive control, or verbal abuse. Acknowledging these patterns is crucial to take proactive steps toward change.

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Set Boundaries

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Establishing clear boundaries is essential for protecting your mental and emotional well-being. Communicate your limits with firm but respectful language, and consistently uphold them. Boundaries act as a shield against harmful behaviors.

Seek Support from Others

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Image credits: Depositphotos monkeybusiness

Don’t be afraid to lean on friends, extended family, or a trusted adult for support. Talking to someone you trust can provide valuable perspective and emotional validation, helping you feel less isolated in your decision.

Consider Professional Help

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Image Credit_ Depositphotos photographee.eu

Therapy or counseling can be incredibly beneficial in navigating complex familial relationships. A trained professional can offer guidance, provide coping strategies, and help you process your emotions healthily and constructively.

Cultivate a Supportive Network

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Image Credit_ Depositphotos Syda_Productions

Surround yourself with people who uplift and support you. Seek friendships and relationships promoting positivity, understanding, and healthy communication. A supportive network can be an invaluable source of strength.

Practice Self-Care

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Photo Credit: Shutterstock.

Prioritize your own well-being and engage in self-care activities that bring you joy and relaxation. This can include exercise, hobbies, mindfulness practices, or simply spending time doing things you love. Taking care of yourself is not selfish; it’s necessary for your overall happiness.

Educate Yourself

Read Offline woman sitting and reading
Image credits: Depositphotos AllaSerbrinna.

Understanding toxic behavior patterns and their impact can be empowering. Educate yourself on healthy relationships, boundaries, and communication techniques. This knowledge equips you with the tools to navigate difficult situations.

Limit Contact Gradually

older woman on phone
Image Credit Depositphotos aletia

If possible, start by gradually reducing the amount of contact with your toxic parent. This can provide a breathing space to assess your feelings and gain perspective on the relationship.

Practice Assertive Communication

The lower half of a woman's face smiling and holding a phone to her ear.
Image credits: Depositphotos AllaSerebrina.

When you do communicate with your parent, practice assertive communication. Be clear, honest, and direct about your feelings and boundaries without resorting to aggression or blame. Assertiveness allows you to express yourself while maintaining respect.

Focus on Your Own Growth

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Image Credit_ Depositphotos pressmaster

Invest time and energy into personal growth and development. Pursue your passions, set goals, and work towards your own fulfillment. Focusing on your growth empowers you and reminds you of your own strength and potential.

Consider Temporary Separation

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Image credits: Depositphotos IgorVetushko

In some cases, a period of temporary separation can provide clarity and perspective. Taking a step back from the relationship can allow you to evaluate your feelings and determine the best path forward.

Seek Legal Advice if Necessary

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Image Credit_ Depositphotos ginasanders

If your safety or well-being is at risk, consider seeking legal advice or exploring options like restraining or protective orders. Your safety should always be the top priority.

Maintain a Supportive Inner Dialogue

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Image credits Depositphotos deagreez1

Be kind and compassionate to yourself throughout this process. Remember that you deserve love, respect, and a healthy environment. Cultivate a supportive inner dialogue that reinforces your worthiness.

Set Realistic Expectations

expectations
Image Credit_ Depositphotos nupix

Having realistic expectations about the potential for change in your parent’s behavior is important. While people can grow and change, it’s not always guaranteed. Focus on your own well-being regardless of external factors.

Celebrate Your Progress

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Acknowledge and celebrate the progress you make, no matter how small. Each step towards a healthier, more positive life is a significant achievement. Celebrating your progress reinforces your strength and resilience.

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Listen Up Drunko: Warning Signs You’re A High-Functioning Alcoholic – Spotting a high-functioning alcoholic can be a challenge. These individuals may excel in their professional lives and maintain a facade of normalcy, making it difficult to recognize their struggles with alcohol.

15 Clear-Cut Signs You Were Neglected As A Child and Still Hold That Trauma Today

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15 Clear-Cut Signs You Were Neglected As A Child and Still Hold That Trauma Today
Childhood experiences can leave lasting imprints on our adult lives. Neglect during childhood can manifest in various ways as we grow up.

Stop Making These 15 Common Parenting Mistakes

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Stop Making These 15 Common Parenting Mistakes Parenting is a wonderful journey that is also incredibly hard. Parents often worry if they are making the right choices for their children, and it’s natural to make mistakes along the way.

15 Common and Obvious Habits That Are Killing People, Yet They Keep Doing Them

Image credits Depositphotos IgorVetushko
Image credits Depositphotos IgorVetushko

15 Common and Obvious Habits That Are Killing People, Yet They Keep Doing Them We all know that taking care of our bodies is important, but sometimes, we fall into habits that aren’t so great for us. Let’s take a closer look at 15 common things people do, even though they’re not the best for our bodies.

If You Had One of These, You’re Old: 15 Nostalgic Things from the ’90s We Wish Would Make a Comeback in 2023

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Image Credit Depositphotos VitalikRadko.

If You Had One of These, You’re Old: 15 Nostalgic Things from the ’90s We Wish Would Make a Comeback in 2023 Ah, the ’90s, a decade filled with colorful memories and unforgettable trends. As we step into 2023, we’d love to see some iconic things from that era make a triumphant return. Here are 15 nostalgic ’90s gems we wish would come back in style!

15 Signs That Time Keeps Marching On and You’re Getting Old

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15 Signs That Time Keeps Marching On and You’re Getting Old ears pass, the months turn to years, and the years turn to decades, we might start noticing little reminders that we’re not as spry as we used to be.

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Victoria Cornell
Website | + posts

As a full-time working mom of three, I know what it’s like to feel like life is out of balance and out of control.

While I don’t have it all figured out, I am committed to sharing helpful tips and tricks with other mommas who are ready to break free from negativity, ditch mom guilt, & finally, live life on their own terms.

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