Relationships are connections between people that may include emotional or physical intimacy and feelings of love and romance. Relationships can also be social and based on mutual trust, respect and shared values and goals. People in healthy relationships have a variety of supports to draw on for emotional well-being and help them through difficult times. A positive relationship can improve mental health, boost self-esteem and increase overall happiness. People in unhealthy relationships can suffer from loneliness, depression and anxiety. In some cases, the end of a relationship may be necessary for the individual’s personal health and wellbeing.
A healthy relationship is a balanced one, where there is an equal amount of giving and taking. Affection, energy and love are all important parts of a healthy relationship, as are support, honesty and empathy. Relationships can also be more practical, such as sharing household bills and responsibilities.
There are many different types of relationships in a person’s life, ranging from casual acquaintances to close friends and family. These relationships can be based on a common interest, work or location, for example classmates or neighbors. They can also be based on the role models that a person is exposed to, for example, when they see their parents or other adults facing adversity and persevering through difficulties.
Some people have more intimate relationships than others, such as those in a romantic relationship. Intimate relationships often involve physical closeness and feelings of intimacy, such as kissing or touching. It is thought that the need for human connection is an evolutionary biological necessity, and early experiences with caregivers influence a person’s ability to form relationships.
Intimate relationships can be a source of great happiness and satisfaction, but they are not without their challenges. For example, infidelity is a major problem for some couples and can be devastating to their sense of connectedness. However, many couples can survive infidelity and other everyday threats to their relationships, such as a lack of physical intimacy or the gradual waning of positive feelings.
Being in a romantic relationship can be a huge source of joy and pride, but it requires work to maintain a strong bond and preserve that “falling in love” experience. People in healthy relationships have the discipline to treat their partners with respect and dignity, even when they are angry or frustrated. They also have the courage to talk openly about their needs and expectations.
Relationships are also shaped by culture, beliefs and location. The terms used to describe a relationship vary depending on the context and can sometimes be confusing. For example, some people use the term “friendship” to mean any type of relationship that is not romantic. Others use the term to refer to a close friendship that includes intimate and sexual intimacy. Still others use the term to refer to a formal commitment to each other, such as cohabitation or marriage. A formal relationship usually involves a commitment to exclusivity, mutual trust and respect.