Healthy relationships

Throughout life we make relationships, some of which will last forever, others which come and go

Making a good friendship

Relationships with our parents, family, friends, co-workers and boyfriends/girlfriends are important components of our lives. How we treat each other and how others treat us impact on our lives.

If you ask people what makes a good friendship some common responses are:

  • being able to talk to someone openly and honestly
  • being listened to
  • being able to call them when you need them
  • trust, knowing they have your back
Making a healthy relationship with a partner

Dating, romance and going out with someone can be really exciting and fun but relationships can also be painful and difficult to handle at times. Good communication is key to maintaining a healthy intimate relationship with a partner and similar to building a good friendship there are things you need to be able to do.

Speak up
In a healthy relationship, if something is bothering you, it's best to talk about it instead of holding it in

Respect your partner
Your partner's wishes and feelings have value. Let your partner know you are making an effort to keep their ideas in mind. Mutual respect is essential in maintaining healthy relationships

Compromise
Disagreements are a natural part of healthy relationships, but it's important that you find a way to compromise if you disagree on something. Try to solve conflicts in a fair and rational way

Be supportive
Offer reassurance and encouragement to your partner. Also, let your partner know when you need their support. Healthy relationships are about building each other up, not putting each other down

Feel safe
You must feel safe in your relationship, safe from physical or verbal violence or intimidation. You must respect each other's physical space

Respect each other's privacy
Just because you're in a relationship, doesn't mean you have to share everything and constantly be together. Healthy relationships require space. Creating healthy boundaries is a good way of helping to maintain and manage a relationship:

  • go out with your friends without your partner
  • participate in activities and hobbies you like
  • not have to share passwords to your email, social media accounts or phone
  • respect each other's individual likes and needs