Is It Selfish to Walk Away From a Mentally Draining Relationship?

[Shree]

We’re told to stand by people through hard times, but what if their struggles start damaging your own wellbeing? Where do you draw the line between loyalty and self-preservation?

 

[Teri W]

You can walk away from any mentally draining relationship that wants to keep you depressed and weak. You must keep yourself in one piece first before trying to help others, you can't afford to be broken to do that. It Is not selfishness, it is right to help yourself first so you can be fit to help others.

 

[arunima]

No, it's not being selfish. There are people who have taken that tough decision. They have given everything to the relationship and to nurture it. But then that doesn't help. It drains them and impacts their mental and emotional well being too. Relationships are a challenge and become even more challenging with mental health issues involved in it. One cannot pour from an empty cup. If you are always drained, exhausted and frustrated, you can not nurture the other person who needs support. If the toll on mental and emotional health is too much, it is advisable to walk away.

 

[Hazel]

Not necessarily. Protecting your mental health is important, and sometimes walking away is the healthiest choice. It’s only selfish if you leave without empathy or consideration, but prioritizing your well-being doesn’t make you a bad person, it’s self-preservation.