Relationships encompass a broad range of intimate and platonic connections between people. Typically, when someone is referred to as being in a relationship, it refers to a romantic and sexual partnership that may be premarital, marital, or nonmonogamy and involves emotional and physical intimacy. In addition to romantic relationships, there are also platonic, close friendships and casual acquaintances that help us feel connected with others and serve as a buffer against loneliness. The many benefits of healthy relationships include an improved mood, increased self-esteem, and a sense of belonging. In addition, research shows that having a strong support network can add years to your life.
In healthy relationships, you can trust your significant other to make good choices and respect your feelings. You can also talk about difficult issues without fear of being hurt or humiliated. You can even disagree with your partner in a respectful way and resolve conflicts without blame, insults, or degradation. In addition, you both can enjoy spending time with other friends and family and maintain your individual identities.
While it’s possible to lead a satisfying and fulfilling life alone, forming relationships can offer an array of rewards. It’s important to know the difference between different types of relationships so you can choose the ones that work for you. Having a variety of social relationships helps you feel supported during stressful times and gives you a better chance of living a long, healthy life. If your relationship is causing you stress, be sure to discuss it with your therapist and consider a professional evaluation.