Relationships is a word that can be used to describe a wide variety of human connections, from platonic friendships to romantic love. There are many factors that go into a healthy relationship, such as communication, intimacy, trust and care. It’s also important for people to maintain positive relationships outside of their intimate relationships. This can include family, friends, community organizations and clubs. People who have strong social support networks tend to live longer and have better mental health.
Research shows that human beings have an innate need for social connection, and the ability to form stable relationships may begin in early infancy through a child’s experiences with their caregivers, who are often responsible for meeting the infant’s needs for food, care, warmth, protection and stimulation. These early experiences can shape the way in which a person relates to others for the rest of their life.
In a healthy relationship, the partners are both able to make each other feel emotionally fulfilled and loved. They are able to communicate openly and honestly, and they work together towards mutually beneficial goals. This could mean having fun activities together, or it might involve more serious things like financial stability and emotional support. It’s important to avoid negative aspects of a relationship, such as betrayal, emotional abuse and lack of physical affection.
The researchers featured in this special issue are highlighting the importance of healthy relationships for our well-being, and they hope to raise awareness about their work. They argue that while governmental and private institutions invest significant resources into addressing determinants of health such as poverty and tobacco use, they overlook the clear link between relationships and a person’s mental and physical health.