The Red Flags You Should Never Ignore on a First Date

It's normal to look back after a break-up and wonder what you could have done differently. Were there signs your ex was a mama's boy? Or were they just a little too close to that co-worker?

According to relationship expert Tammy Nelson, it is possible to spot problematic behavior as early as the first date.

"There are several red flags to look for when on a first date that can indicate problems or even toxic behavior further down the line," she told Newsweek.

From invading your personal space, to saying "I love you" before you've so much as glanced at the dessert menu, here are the red flags to look out for when getting to know someone new.

1. The Drunk Date

It could be nerves, or it could be a drinking problem. When faced with a drunken date or someone whose only hobby seems to be alcohol, Nelson recommends "trusting your gut."

"If they talk about the two bottles of wine they drank last night or the hangover they couldn't get over the day before, or if they order double drinks when the waiter comes around, you could be headed for a future of drunk date disasters," she warns.

2. The Handsy Date

Whether it's a kiss "hello" or putting a hand on your thigh before your drinks have even arrived, the "handsy date" does not understand personal space. Although dealing with a touchy-feely match is creepy enough, it could be a sign of more serious behavior further down the line.

"If your date is being too physical too soon, it could be a sign that they have very iffy boundaries," warned Nelson. "It's better to create a safe space while you can."

3. The Bummer Date

Is your match's attitude bringing you down? Say hello to the "bummer date." More than just a bad mood, this behavior on a first date can be a sign of a toxic personality. These types lack empathy and struggle to take responsibility for their actions, assuming the victim role and blaming others for their mistakes.

"[If they] can't stop bad-mouthing their colleagues or their family and spend time telling you about every breakup they've ever had, you know you'll be next," Nelson said.

"It's time to pay the check and sneak out the door while you can."

4. The 'End of the World' Date

You might see your match's interest in conspiracy theories as a funny little quirk in the beginning of your relationship. Long-term, their belief that the Earth is flat, or that Princess Diana was murdered might cause issues.

"[If they] can't stop proselytizing about how vaccines implant cameras in our brain, or how the end of the world is coming and we all need to move to Mars, run," advised Nelson.

5. The Love Bomber

It's nice to be showered with love and affection—unless it's from someone you've only known for five minutes. Love bombers move fast to embed their victim into a relationship as quickly as possible, with the intention of dominating or controlling them.

"[It's] a form of narcissistic manipulation," said Nelson. "[It's] bound to come back around and bite you.

"Love bombing usually starts before you even meet in person, so watch for signs in your pre-date communication."

What To Do if You Spot a Red Flag

Don't let politeness get in the way of your safety and comfort. If something doesn't feel right, don't hesitate to draw the date to a close.

"The important thing when dating someone for the first time is to trust your intuition," said Nelson.

"If it feels wrong, it probably is. Most of us ignore those red flags, the small signs that something isn't right.

"If you are seeing a red flag, it's okay to say to a date 'You know, this might not be a good match for me, but since the world is going to end anyway, maybe we will meet on Mars someday.'"