Signs of a Healthy Relationship
In a healthy relationship, both people:
- are able to express their thoughts, feelings and needs without fear of being judged.
- maintain their individuality and uniqueness. It is positive when relationships introduce you to new ideas or activities, but if you find yourself changing your interests, activities, or friends, or doing things you don’t enjoy in order to become closer to someone, you may be in a relationship that is not conducive to your health and well-being.
- use effective communication skills, including verbal and non-verbal communication. It is important to have good listening skills, and to be prepared to ask questions for clarification and not expect the other person to be a mind-reader.
- show respect and kindness. In an intimate relationship, this extends to sharing love and affection. Partners value each other’s differences rather than use them to separate and cause conflict.
- use good conflict resolution skills. Conflict is an almost inevitable part of relationships, especially in relationships where the partners rely on each other and are emotionally close. They key to strengthening a relationship is not to avoid conflict, but to resolve it in a mutually satisfactory way. It is important, therefore, not to judge or blame, or to look for victory when a disagreement arises.
- accept the need for a balance of giving and receiving, and assuring that each other’s needs are met.
- enjoy each other’s company, and look for opportunities to socialize, play, and have fun together
- are able to express their thoughts, feelings and needs without fear of being judged.
