Relationships are the connections we share with others that influence our happiness and well-being. They can be intimate, casual, and in many different forms. Having healthy relationships provides important emotional support and companionship, as well as opportunities for personal growth and stability.
A healthy relationship should be based on mutual respect and trust. It should also allow each person to feel secure enough that they can pursue their own interests while still feeling connected to their partner. It’s not uncommon to have conflict in a relationship, but healthy relationships are about finding productive ways to address it. It should never be about tearing each other down or competing.
Having a supportive partner can be a powerful tool to help us chase our dreams and overcome obstacles. Relationships that provide a sense of permanence can give us the confidence to take risks and believe in ourselves, and they can make our lives richer by giving us someone with whom we share our life experiences.
Intimate relationships can include sexual intimacy and feelings of romance or love. They can be monogamous or non-monogamous, platonic or affectionate, and they may be casual, formal, or committed.
Affectionate relationships can involve cuddling, holding hands, forehead kisses, and other forms of affection. They are the glue that holds a romantic bond together, but they can also be a great source of comfort during stressful times. Affectionate relationships are often a sign of a healthy connection, but they don’t replace the need for respect and trust in a marriage or civil union.