Advocating for Healthy Relationships this American Heart Month: 5 signs you’re in a healthy relationship

A healthy relationship built to last requires dedication and determination. Challenges are just a part of life. So naturally, no relationship is smooth sailing all of the time! What really matters is the value and respect you hold for one another as well as the way you navigate conflict. Truly healthy relationships can be a lot of work but the health of your relationship is important as it sets the tone in your home and plays a huge role in your mental health. 

So how can you tell if you’re in a healthy relationship? Let’s talk about it.. 

This information about healthy and safe relationships is brought to you in partnership with the Tuscarawas County Health Department. 

What is a Healthy Relationship? 

A healthy relationship is built on a foundation of empathy, kindness, and commitment. In a healthy relationship partners have a mutual respect for one another and their boundaries. They have the ability to work together as a team, especially when conflict arises. A healthy partner should make you feel safe, loved, supported and respected. 

5 Telltale signs of a Healthy Relationship.. 

1.You respect one another

The most important aspect of a healthy relationship is respect. Healthy partners respect one another in every aspect. Speaking respectfully- especially in disagreements, respecting boundaries and even respecting each other physically in an intimate space are all great signs of a healthy relationship. 

2.You can trust one another

Trust is something that is earned in a relationship. Being consistent, trustworthy and showing up for one another time and time again can form a deep trust. This trust can be reassuring that your relationship is good for you. 

3.You have open communion

If you feel comfortable communicating your needs, feelings and boundaries to your partner- and that feeling is reciprocated- that’s a great sign that your relationship is healthy. Being able to effectively communicate with one another is incredibly important. When things get tough, you need to be able to work together to come out the other side with a mutual understanding- even if you disagree. 

4.You support one another’s goals

It’s healthy to have goals and wants for yourself outside of the relationship and even better for your partner to support those goals. Healthy partners cheer each other on through their independent endeavors. 

5.You’re both committed to the relationship

It’s a good sign that your relationship is healthy if you’re both equally committed to the relationship. It can take a lot of commitment to work through the challenges that come with long term relationships. Even a healthy relationship will have its ups and downs with plenty of give and take. 

Sometimes you’ll both have 100% to give, sometimes you’ll meet each other right in the middle at 50/50 and sometimes you’ll have to take turns picking up each other’s slack- one giving 20% and the other carrying the load of 80%. That’s all okay as long as you’re both committed to being a healthy and safe space for one another. 

To read more, check out this article from Cleveland Clinic: 12 Signs You’re in a Healthy Relationship 

Being in a healthy relationship is not a luxury, it’s something everyone deserves. A healthy relationship allows you to communicate openly without fear of ridicule or judgement and is built on a foundation of mutual respect. In a long term relationship, sensitive topics like reproductive healthcare are on the table, making effective communication and respect crucial to both mental and physical health. 

When these intimate conversations arise, remember that the Tuscarawas County Health Department offers reproductive health and wellness program services so couples can plan healthy families. New patients are welcome for reproductive health and wellness appointments. Call 330-343-5555, ext. 1810 to make an appointment.