Sometimes, it’s hard to remember what a healthy relationship is supposed to look and feel like.

The relationships we form with other people are vital to our mental and emotional wellbeing. Research finds that healthy relationships protect against stress, provide a sense of purpose, motivate healthy behaviors, and promote life longevity.

Healthy relationships (romantic relationships, friendships, familial relationships -- they all count!) can make for a healthier overall life.

But what exactly does a healthy relationship look like?

• A commitment to compromise

• An appreciation of personal “freedoms” in friendships, professional goals, and hobbies

• An ability to problem solve and listen in moments of challenge

• Refraining from stonewalling or escalating personal attacks when there is a difference of opinion or a problem

• An ability to “talk it through” with respect, openness, empathy, and understanding

• A commitment to honesty in what you do and say

• A desire (and effort) to spend time together and share experiences  

• An ability to share/express emotion: laughter, tears, disappointment, gratitude, and joy…

These are some of the building blocks we can help you work on in re-discovering health and longevity in your relationship. Sometimes, all that’s needed is help getting back to the basics—and we can help you act on this.