Relationships are an important part of life and can add immense value to your existence. But like any aspect of our lives, healthy relationships require some effort to maintain and thrive. Whether you’re single, dating, or married, it’s crucial to pay attention to your relationships and keep them in good health.
Healthy relationships can help you feel happy, productive, and supported. They can also provide a sense of security and stability, which can help reduce the risk of mental health issues such as depression or anxiety. In fact, research has shown that social ties, including those within close relationships, may even add years to your life!
But what defines a relationship? And how do you know if the one you’re in is truly healthy and headed in the right direction for the long haul? Registered psychotherapist Natacha Duke, MA, RP, has some tips on how to spot the tell-tale signs that you’re in it for the long haul.
Mutually Beneficial
In healthy relationships, both partners contribute equally and share responsibilities. This includes financial, emotional, and physical support. It also involves mutual respect and a willingness to listen and compromise. While it’s impossible to fully match up on every point, a successful couple is usually on the same page about most major decisions and values.
Supportive
Positive relationships provide a strong foundation of support that can empower you to be more confident and self-assured. They can also motivate you to take more risks and chase after your dreams, knowing that you have a partner who will be there for you no matter what.
Shared Experiences
The shared experiences that you have with your partner can bring you closer together and create memories that last a lifetime. These can include anything from traveling and celebrating milestones to simply spending quality time together doing the things that you both enjoy.
Emotional Connection
In a healthy relationship, you maintain a deep and meaningful emotional connection with your partner. This is what separates a romantic bond from just another friendship. It’s also what keeps a loving relationship from just being boring or stagnant.
Often, couples become stuck in peaceful coexistence without a true emotional connection because they’re afraid to do the work that it takes. They’re afraid that the “work” will be too difficult or exhausting, but it’s important to remember that healthy relationships are similar to other aspects of our lives. Think of a hobby you’re really into, or a school project you’re really psyched about. They might take some effort, but it’s work you find fun, inspiring, or engaging, and that’s exactly how your relationship should be.
In the end, a thriving relationship is one that makes you feel loved and accepted for who you are. A successful relationship can provide you with a lifetime of happiness and enjoyment if you nurture it with the same attention and care that you’d give any other aspect of your life.