Even the brightest and nicest people can be involved in a relationship that sucks them dry.

The wounds may not be visible, but you know that whatever is going on isn’t healthy.

That’s why they’re sometimes calledtoxic relationships.

Narveen Dosanjh, M.D.

How to help your friend.

You want to say something,anything.

Avoid harsh judgments.

Understand and acknowledge that we all are imperfect human beings.

We make mistakes, even in our judgments of people.

Emotions, interpretations, and the experience of “love” arenot logical.

So relax a little, and step back with your harsh judgments.

Recognize their right to make their own mistakes.

We want to protect the people we care about.

But we have to let others learn, grow, and make mistakes on their own.

As difficult as it may be to watch, it’s their lesson to learn.

They may see the light" or they may not.

It’s their life and journey, not yours.

Communicate your concerns gently.

Voice your concerns in a reasonable way.

Be wary of making this person feel attacked.

Have anhonest conversationabout your concerns, opinions, and observations.

Resist the temptation to exaggerate or impose your feelings on their relationship.

It should be a logical conversation based on facts.

One conversation is more than enough.

A million repetitive statements will do nothing other than belittle and alienate the person you care about.

It’s important to avoid attacking their significant other.

Don’t distance yourself.

You might not like them, but you have to accept and tolerate that person.

After all, their relationship could end tomorrow.

You were there before, and you’ll be there long after.

You could be their lifeline back to sanity, so don’t cut the rope.

Listen and be there.

It’s time to listen, not judge.

As angry as you may feel in that moment, be the calm confidante that your loved one needs.

But it’s about timing and delivery.

That is what real love is all about, and that is beautiful.

Hold onto it and dont let it go.