Is It Me—or Is This Relationship Emotionally Draining?

(How to Know When Something’s Not Right (and What Therapy Can Help You Heal)

Do You Feel Worn Out by Someone You Care About?

You love them. You want things to work. But lately… something feels off.

Maybe you feel drained after every conversation. Or you walk on eggshells, trying not to upset them. Maybe you question your own reactions, your worth, or your memory.

And deep down, you’re wondering:

• Is it me?

• Why do I feel so anxious around them?

• Why am I always the one trying to fix things?

If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone. And no—you’re not imagining it.

Let’s talk about what it means to be in an emotionally draining relationship, how to spot the signs, and how therapy can help you feel more clear, confident, and whole again.

What Is an Emotionally Draining Relationship?

We all have tough moments in relationships. But when a relationship becomes emotionally draining, it takes a deeper toll on your mental health, your energy, and your self-worth.

You might feel like:

• You’re always giving—but rarely receiving

• You can’t say how you really feel without starting a fight

• You’re constantly questioning yourself

• You feel small, insecure, or anxious around them

• You’re stuck in a cycle of conflict, guilt, or emotional highs and lows

These relationships don’t have to be loud or dramatic. Sometimes they look kind, quiet, or “normal” from the outside. But inside, you feel exhausted—and that matters.

Signs You May Be in an Emotionally Draining Relationship

Here are some red (or yellow) flags to watch for:

💔 You feel responsible for their emotions

You might find yourself walking on eggshells or trying to “manage” their mood so things don’t escalate.

💔 You apologize often—even when it’s not your fault

Over-apologizing is a sign you’ve been conditioned to believe everything is your fault.

💔 You feel like you’re “too sensitive” or “too much”

If you’re constantly being told this, it might not be about you—it might be emotional invalidation.

💔 You’re losing your voice

You don’t speak up as much. You second-guess yourself. You’ve started to shrink in the relationship.

💔 You feel drained, anxious, or emotionally numb after being with them

Pay attention to how you feel after spending time together—your body knows.

Is It Toxic or Just Hard Right Now?

Not every hard relationship is “toxic.” Life can be stressful, and people have rough patches. But if you’re stuck in patterns that harm your self-worth, it’s okay to step back and take care of you.

Here’s the truth:
You don’t need a label to know something doesn’t feel right.

If you constantly feel drained, anxious, or small in a relationship, that’s a signal—one you’re allowed to listen to.

How Therapy Can Help You Make Sense of It All

At Mindful Healing Counseling, we help people explore their relationships in a safe, supportive space—without shame, pressure, or judgment.

Therapy can help you:

• Understand why certain dynamics trigger you

• Reconnect with your voice and your needs

• Set boundaries that protect your peace

• Heal from past relationships that still affect you

• Build healthier, more mutual connections

You’re Not Too Sensitive. You’re Tired of Being Dismissed.

If you’ve ever been told:

• “You’re overreacting.”

• “You’re too emotional.”

• “You always make things about you.”

You might start to believe it.

But often, those comments are used to silence or confuse you. In therapy, we help you untangle that confusion, rebuild your self-trust, and remember: you’re not too much—you’ve just been too unsupported.

Types of Relationships That Can Feel Draining

It’s not just romantic partners. Emotional burnout can come from:

• A parent who’s controlling or critical or constantly blames you for everything

• A sibling who never respects boundaries

• A friend who only calls when they need something

• A boss who constantly oversteps or gaslights

• A partner who gives love one day and pulls away the next

You are allowed to set boundaries, ask for what you need, and protect your peace—even in family, even in friendships, even in love.

You Deserve Relationships That Feel Safe and Supportive

Healthy relationships don’t mean everything is perfect all the time. But they do mean:

• You feel heard

• You feel safe being yourself

• You don’t have to shrink or explain away your feelings

• There’s room for both people’s needs—not just one

Start Online Therapy in Chicago or Anywhere in Illinois

If you’re feeling overwhelmed by a relationship—or just confused about what’s going on—therapy can help you sort through the noise and come back home to yourself.

Our online therapy services are:

• Flexible – Evening and weekend options available

• Accessible – No commute, no waiting room, just support from wherever you are

• Culturally affirming – We provide therapy for BIPOC, LGBTQ+, and women clients who want to be seen for their whole story

Whether you're dealing with anxiety, attachment issues, people-pleasing, or emotional burnout—we’re here for you.

You Don’t Have to Figure It All Out Alone

You’ve been trying to manage it all on your own. And you’ve done the best you can. But now it’s okay to rest, reflect, and receive help.

We’re not here to tell you what to do—we’re here to walk with you as you figure out what you want, what you need, and what you deserve.

Your relationships should feel like home, not like a tightrope.

Let’s help you build that. Start Your Healing Journey Today.