What makes a relationship healthy?
Each relationship will look different, however there are key qualities that healthy relationships always have. These are demonstrated between partners by what each person says and does. Here we provide a brief overview of these qualities, as well as some signs of a healthy relationship.
Qualities of Healthy Relationships
-
Respect – Partners accept and value who the other person is. There is freedom to be oneself and share opinions, even if they differ from the other person’s. They listen to each other, appreciate each other’s choices and decisions, and honour boundaries. They provide support as needed and encourage each other’s interests, goals, and growth.
-
Trust – Partners believe that the other person will act with their best interests in mind. They will be loyal and will not cause each other harm. They will tell each other if there is a problem, listen, and respect one another. Each person can spend time with other people outside of the relationship and have their own hobbies and activities.
-
Honesty – Partners tell each other the truth about their thoughts, feelings, and behaviours. They are open with each other about what is happening both within their relationship and outside of it. They communicate authentically and respectfully, with the purpose of understanding one another and working together.
-
Equality – Partners strive to meet each other’s needs as much as possible, while acknowledging that each person is also responsible for their own needs. They discuss both partners’ boundaries and have realistic expectations about what they can offer each other. The relationship involves fair amounts of give and take between partners, as well as compromises.
-
Fun - Partners enjoy spending time together. They have common interests and do activities that they both like. Each person is able to feel safe, comfortable, and happy in the relationship. Both partners acknowledge that violence is unacceptable.
Signs of Healthy Relationships
-
The relationship develops gradually, with enough time for partners to really get to know each other.
-
There is compatibility- partners share the same beliefs, values, and life goals.
-
Partners make decisions together.
-
Partners share responsibilities.
-
Partners appreciate each other's strengths.
-
Each partner’s contributions are acknowledged and valued.
-
Partners are able to admit when they are wrong, apologize, and learn from their mistakes.
-
There is no pressure from your partner for the relationship to move faster than you want it to.
-
Partners encourage each other to spend time with others or alone.
-
Partners respect each other’s need for privacy.