Top 3 Ways Marriage Can Contribute to Recovery from Toxic Relationships

There are several ways that marriage can contribute to recovery from toxic relationships. Over the years, I’ve had my share of toxic relationships that contributed negatively to my mental health. However, as tempted as I was to develop a defeatist mindset, I never lost hope that someday I would be able to experience a loving and healthy relationship. My husband is truly my best friend; every day I spend with him is a gift! Our marriage has helped me recover from the toxic situations I’ve had in the past but more importantly, helped me realize 3 important ways marriage can contribute to recovery from toxic relationships. They are building trust, having emotional support, and healing through love and affection.

1) Building Trust

After experiencing a very toxic marriage in the past, I wanted to believe that I would someday experience a renewed sense of trust and security in future relationships. My husband John is my anchor when it comes to emotional support, and I trust him, and his opinions for the decisions I make in my life. As such, in a supporting and loving marriage, individuals can experience a renewed sense of trust and security which helps with restoring faith in relationships!

2) Emotional Support

For me, being able to receive emotional support from my husband has been immensely healing! A spouse who is understanding, supportive and empathetic paves the way for a nurturing marriage. Having a spouse with these attributes after coming out of a toxic relationship allows individuals to build trust, process emotions, as well as relearning healthy relationship dynamics.

3) Healing through Love and Affection

Love and affection in a marriage can be a powerful source of healing! Acts of love, kindness, and affection from a spouse can help individuals rebuild their self-esteem, feel valued and experience genuine care and support. When a partner in a relationship experiences these traits, this can counteract the negative impact of toxic relationships and promote a positive journey on the road to healing.

In a previous post, I shared how seeking a therapist prompted healing in various areas of my life. It’s important to understand that not all marriages are automatically the solution for recovery from toxic relationships! Give yourself permission to seek professional help from someone you can trust that can provide guidance to your specific situation.  Additionally, allow God to work within you, to heal your broken heart, and free you from the anger, shame, or distrust you may have had in the past. Focus on the new creation he has made new within you!

“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come. The old has gone, the new is here!”            2 Corinthians 5:17