Ending a relationship can be so difficult. You obviously cared about each other at one point - maybe even loved each other. But when things turn sour, how do you know that it's time to break it off? Here are 12 red flags that tell you when it's time to talk away from your relationship.

1. You've grown tired of the relationship

Now, every relationship goes through a rough patch. Small problems are a bump on the road, and they can be fixed with a healthy discussion. But what if red flags are appearing even after giving it all to this relationship? You've grown apart, and there is nothing you can do to salvage it. If that's the case, then you should just respectfully end it before you start to regret the time you spent with them.

2. You're fighting a lot

Disagreement is a part of a normal, healthy relationship. It allows you to grow and learn about your partner's likes and dislikes. What's not normal is when most of your conversations and discussions end up in a screaming match with each other. Not only will this mentally drain you, but it will also make you resent your partner that will not end well for anyone. You will have to leave the relationship to save yourself from unnecessary drama.

3. They don't emotionally support you

A relationship only works if both partners support each other. Whether you're down on your luck or you want to go after a big opportunity at work, your significant other being there to support you can make life a little bit easier. But if there is no encouragement or support from them, it can cast doubt on all your pursuits. If they don't take steps to show any encouragement, it's best to part ways from the relationship.

4. Your partner is verbally or physically abusive

Abuse should not be a part of any relationship. Ever. Abuse can lead to various psychological issues that can manifest themselves in other parts of your life. Verbal abuse can cause you to lose confidence and self-esteem, and physical assault will cause bodily harm and emotional distress. If your partner is very abusive, it's a sign that you should not encourage that behavior by staying and being the victim in the relationship.

5. They're hiding things from you

Keeping secrets in a relationship is generally not a good idea. Being open and honest shows that you can trust and support each other. There's a problem if they start hiding things from you, like secretly taking your money or doing something behind your back. This is a sign that your partner does not trust you or has an underlying problem that needs fixing. If they cannot be forthcoming with you, then you should end it and move on.

6. They make excuses to not spend time with you

The key to strengthening the bond with your partner is to spend quality time with them. But sometimes, you or your partner maybe not in the mood or are busy with other facets of life to hang out, which is entirely understandable. If your partner makes excuses not to be there every time you plan a date or an event, then they're not invested enough emotionally to spend time with you. You should end the relationship if they keep up the charade.

7. They constantly try to change you

You and your partner have something to bring to the table in the relationship. When people change and grow organically, it improves and solidifies the bond between both of you. Unfortunately, your partner may not want to settle with your idiosyncrasies and will try to nitpick every single flaw and change them. This manipulative behavior will mentally tax you and will chip away at your personality. For the sake of your well-being, just walk away from your partner.

8. Your partner cheats on you constantly

Everyone's thoughts occasionally wander and may fantasize about someone else. It's normal, but it should be kept within your own mind. There is a big difference between thinking about it and doing it. It's terrible to be cheated on, and it violates the relationship. If your partner is seeing someone else, then you should move on from this toxic relationship.

9. They're just using you

There is always give and take in every relationship. This is necessary to maintain a strong bond with them as they can rely on you and vice-versa. But there will always be a person who gets into a relationship only to fulfill their needs and will not reciprocate the sentiment. This behavior can drain your resources mentally and financially. This gives you a clear indication that the relationship has to end if they're not willing to change.

10. They're trying to control you

Controlling each other's way of doing things is not right in any relationship. Their constant need to control everything from what you do to where you go is fundamentally wrong. You need your space to maintain your sanity and independence, but this behavior is a threat to your being. Everyone behaves in their own way, and if your partner needs to control everything about it, you shouldn't stand for it and walk from the relationship.

11. They're a lost cause

A relationship is about building up each other and being by their side at all times. But some things that your partner does are a deal-breaker like substance abuse, reckless spending, rude to others, etc. You should be there to help them try to get better and provide emotional support. If they're trying to resist change no matter what you do, then they're a lost cause, and you start distancing yourself from them.

12. You have different priorities

You and your partner have to be on the same page to make the relationship work. You need to discuss with your significant other your priorities and where the relationship is going. If you're looking for a long-term relationship or a casual setting, then they should be on board too. If they're not in the same place you are, then there is no point in pursuing it anymore, and you should end it respectfully.