Relationships are a big part of our lives. They help us feel connected to other people and give our lives meaning. A strong relationship can also boost our immune system and make it easier to recover from illness. Some research even suggests that healthy relationships can add years to our lives.
In a relationship, you share in the responsibility for meeting your mutual needs. This may include doing chores or deciding how to spend time together, but it also includes respecting your partner’s opinions and boundaries. Treating your partner with honesty and kindness is how you show respect.
A relationship can be a supportive place to try new things. It can also be a soft place to fall if what you try doesn’t work out, which reduces stress for people who are prone to it. People in a relationship can also go through health crises together, which gives them the support they need to make it through.
It can be hard to find a balance between work, family and friends, but having a partner can help you stick with healthy habits. For example, if you and your partner both care about good nutrition, exercise and sleep, you can encourage each other to stay on track. If you tend to blow off plans with your friends, your partner can remind you that it’s important for your mental health and happiness. This kind of healthy support is especially helpful for teens and young adults.