Having a healthy network of relationships is good for your mental and physical health. Different types of relationships can include family, friendships, acquaintances and romantic relationships. There are some important aspects to consider when assessing the quality of your relationship including the level of giving and receiving, honesty, respect and trust.
Relationships can also help you improve your communication skills, especially when dealing with difficult topics such as sex and other areas of intimacy. In a good relationship you can learn to talk about these topics without feeling afraid or uncomfortable. In addition, a good relationship can make you happier and may even increase longevity as well as help reduce anxiety and depression.
It is common for people in long term relationships to go through some tough times together, like a health crisis or a job loss. Having a strong support system can give you the confidence to take on new challenges in life because you know you will have a soft place to fall back on.
In a good relationship you will feel love and affection from your partner. This is what distinguishes a romantic bond from a simple friendship. It doesn’t have to be over the top, but it should be enough to still make you feel butterflies in your stomach from time to time.
It is important to be able to identify toxic relationships and stay away from them. If a relationship makes you feel bad or unsafe, try to find ways of communicating better, ask for help from a therapist or even leave the relationship altogether.