What are the signs of a toxic relationship?

It's a scary and heartbreaking thing when you start worrying about your friend's relationship. When does a couple's behavior cross the line from dysfunctional to toxic? Here's what to look out for in your friend's behavior with you and with her significant other that could be serious red flags and signs of a toxic relationship.

She's not her usual self

A friend of yours started dating a new guy and at first they seemed like a perfect match. But you've realized that over the past few weeks or months, she's become withdrawn. She's stopped being the person that you've grown to know and love.

Could it be because of her new relationship? When her boyfriend comes up in conversation, does she seem happy to talk about him and genuinely enjoy his company? If you've seen a dramatic change in her in a short period of time then there could be something wrong.

There's a serious jealousy problem

Does your girl's new man get overly possessive of her when they go out? A little jealously can be natural, but does it get to the point where he's taking it too far?

Flirting is fun and light joking about something silly your s.o. does is totally normal. Does your friend become totally crestfallen when her guy makes a particualrly barbed joke at her expense? Have you been thinking he's crossing a line and tearing down her self-esteem?

Their relationship is totally hot and cold

Your friend can't seem to get enough of her boyfriend and wants to be with him constantly to the point it feels wrong. She's desperate to be with him, but he can't even be bothered to return a text. Then the next day, he's all over her and she's positively glowing. That's not fair and a definite sign of trouble.

She constantly defends him

It's a tricky to be there for your friend when she's going through so many issues with her relationship. You might be wondering if it's your place to say something or if it's none of your business. It could be a sign of serious problems if she winds up defending his every move even though she seems to be miserable.

This is completely unacceptable. There isn't any situation in the world where any boyfriend should ever have hurt his partner. If you're worried about your gal pal's physical safety, get in touch with campus secruity or the police.

If you or someone you know is in a toxic relationship that has become violent, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233.