Relationships are an important part of life. In healthy relationships, people feel supported and energized by their partners. They also learn to communicate better and become more self-aware. Having someone to lean on can make us feel safe and strong enough to take risks and pursue our dreams. Healthy relationships also have many health benefits, including lower stress levels, restful sleep, and improved mental and physical health.
Some relationships are casual “acquaintances.” These are people you might see in the halls or chat with at a party. Others are more involved, such as close friends or a long-term romantic partner. A relationship can also be a group of people who support each other, such as a coworkers or a sports team. Finally, a relationship can be a legal partnership, such as a marriage or civil union.
In a romantic relationship, the partners should have a meaningful emotional connection. This is usually expressed by feeling affection, such as when you say something nice to your partner or they give you a hug. It is also shown by the way you treat each other, such as how well you remember details about your partner’s day or how much you enjoy being in each other’s presence.
In unhealthy relationships, there is often a lack of emotional connection and an unwillingness to look for ways to improve it. This can lead to a variety of problems, such as lying (white or major), manipulation, and emotional abuse.