Everyone has an image in their head of how relationships are supposed to work: two people share responsibilities, balance time together with each other and alone, and pursue engaging and invigorating interests. They also support each other’s personal growth even if it doesn’t fully align with their own needs, and they always make sure to keep open lines of communication.
Relationships
The word “relationship” gets thrown around so much that it’s easy to forget that it encompasses a wide variety of human connections, from familial to romantic to platonic to casual. When used in a more narrow sense, it’s most often reserved for intimate, close relationships where there’s a significant emotional connection between two people.
Healthy relationships build trust by demonstrating that the person or people you’re in it with have your best interest at heart and will never hurt you. They’re dependable and consistent, so you can count on them to be present in your life and provide emotional support when you need it. This kind of relationship can be found between any two people who choose to care for each other, including those with a sexual relationship, as well as in organizations or businesses that share a mutual goal or purpose, like hospitals, churches or schools.
A healthy relationship can have a positive impact on your mental health, especially when it’s full of encouragement and support. However, it can be difficult to know when your relationship is headed for the long haul or if it’s just casual fling. To help you determine what you’re working with, registered psychotherapist Natacha Duke, MA, RP, shares some tell-tale signs that your relationship is serious and committed.