Relationships are a big part of what make life meaningful. They help you build your social support network, which is crucial to both physical and mental health. Relationships can range from a summer fling to a lifetime commitment.
The most common type of relationship is one based on mutual respect, trust, and shared values. Other types of relationships include friendships, parent-child relationships, romantic relationships, and business partnerships.
In healthy relationships, both people treat each other like family and prioritize the other person’s needs. They also understand each other’s nonverbal cues and respond to them appropriately. They are not afraid to discuss difficult issues, even if they disagree, and they do not engage in negative behaviors, such as bullying, sabotage, or passive-aggressiveness.
A healthy couple tries to spend as much time together as possible, but they still allow each other space to have their own interests and spend time with friends and family members. They also do not feel jealous when the other person talks to or spends time with other people, as long as it is in a respectful way and does not jeopardize their relationship.
Maintaining a healthy relationship takes effort, but it is rewarding. It improves your ability to communicate effectively, resolve conflict, and become a better version of yourself. It also gives you a sense of security because you have someone who is always there for you. In addition, research has shown that having close relationships can add years to your life.