Relationships are associations between two people, both romantic and platonic. Typically when someone talks about being in a relationship, they are referring to a romantic one that includes emotional and physical intimacy and some level of ongoing commitment. These can take many forms, from traditional marriage to casual dating and ethical nonmonogamy.

Relationships have a significant impact on our mental health and wellbeing. A healthy relationship provides a positive influence and can be a source of motivation to live a healthy lifestyle. This can be as simple as encouraging your partner to eat healthier foods or go to the gym with you. It can also be as complex as addressing issues of substance use or depression with a trained professional.

A positive relationship can help you feel like a part of a community. It can give you a sense of belonging and safety, which is especially important for those who struggle with feelings of isolation or depression. A good relationship can encourage you to spend time with friends and family and to develop new hobbies or interests.

In a romantic relationship, it is common to find that your partner makes you feel happy and loved. They may make you smile, and they can bring out the best parts of your personality that you didn’t realize were there. They can make you laugh and they can teach you to be more patient and understanding.

A healthy relationship is built on mutual respect. This means that both parties hold each other in high regard and they trust that the other person will do what they say they are going to do. It also means that both parties are open and honest with each other. Nothing should be off limits in a respectful relationship.

If you are unsure whether or not your relationship is healthy, it is recommended that you talk to your partner about it. Having this discussion in-person is preferred so that both of you can hear each other clearly and respond with honesty. It is also recommended that you take the time to consider what your relationship means to you and why you want it to be healthy.

Unfortunately, some relationships are unhealthy and do not provide the joy that they used to. They may have started out as a positive and loving relationship, but over time they may become toxic or dysfunctional. In this case, it is recommended that you reach out to a trusted friend or family member and let them know your concerns. It is never too late to make a change.