Esteban Plazibat / The Telegraph / Five subtle signs your relationship is turning toxic (and how to walk away)

The Telegraph commissioned illustrator Esteban Plazibat to create four illustrations for the article “Five subtle signs your relationship is turning toxic,” including one main illustration and three supporting spot illustrations throughout the piece.

The article talks about how toxic relationships can be difficult to identify, as emotional abuse is often mistaken for love or concern. It explains that signs such as feeling fear, insecurity, guilt, or anxiety, justifying harmful behaviour, losing one’s identity, or isolating from friends may indicate that a relationship is not healthy. It also notes that many people do not realize this until they step away, and that stress can even appear through physical symptoms. Recognizing these signs is key to seeking help and protecting oneself.

Known for his conceptual style and visual language, Esteban Plazibat created illustrations that interpret these themes visually, conveying feelings of overwhelm, stress, and worry, allowing readers to identify with them within this editorial publication.