Financial Dependence in Relationships

They say that money is the root of all evil, and this is especially true in relationships. Regardless of a couple's financial situation, money can have an exorbitant impact on the quality of the relationship. When one person is dependant on another for their financial well-being, problems always ensue, and many times these relationships become unhealthy almost overnight.

Similarly, many people stay in relationships because they fear that they can't make it on their own. Perhaps they aren't getting along with their significant other, or are even enduring abuse, but stay where they are for fear of financial destitution. This couldn't be more unhealthy for both sides, and at some point, you must decide to make it on your own.

Economical well-being is never a reason to stay in a relationship that has deteriorated. All other factors aside, money can create a rift between too people faster than almost any other circumstance, and if you can't leave your boyfriend or girlfriend because they are financially supporting you, it's time to re-evaluate the relationship.

- Are you unhappy in the relationship with regard to everything else except money?
- Do you spend most of your waking hours worried about money, bills and expenses?
- Does your boyfriend or girlfriend hold money over your head and threaten you with financial destitution?
- Are you belittled because of your lack of financial contribution in the relationship?

All of these situations are red flags that should tell you whether or not your relationship is healthy, and if you've answered yes to any of these questions, then it's time to get out before things get any worse.

The reverse is also true. Let's say that you are the primary breadwinner of the home, but your significant other is slowly but steadily draining all of your resources. It may seem like every time you bring home a paycheck, it's gone before the funds even make it to the bank. This is also a negative situation, because you will wind up unable to support yourself or your partner.

You must understand that relationships are two-way streets. If you aren't able to meet each other halfway, then you simply don't belong together. When one person contributes everything to the relationship - be it money, affection, attention or love - the other loses on all accounts. Relationships should be healthy from both sides of the coin, and if one or the other is putting forth all the effort, the relationship is doomed no matter what the other circumstances.

That said, it's definitely time to wake up! Take the driver's seat in your own life and start steering toward a better future for yourself. Come to grips with the fact that all relationships are not meant to be, and that you do have to look out for your own interests first.