The Importance of Relationships
A relationship is any connection between two people, whether it’s platonic or romantic. Relationships can be very important, and they make up part of our social support network. Research has shown that these relationships are associated with improved mental health and a sense of belonging. They can also help us cope with stress and promote healthy lifestyle behaviors.
A key aspect of a healthy relationship is that it’s mutual. That means both partners are actively involved in the relationship. It’s also characterized by trust, honesty, openness and reciprocity. In addition, both partners should feel affection towards one another. This doesn’t just mean that they say “I love you,” but rather, they show their affection through actions, such as hugs and kisses. And they should enjoy each other’s company and make them smile.
It’s a known fact that when you feel good, you will be more likely to engage in positive behaviors, such as eating healthy or exercising regularly. That’s why it’s important to be in a relationship with someone who will cheer you on when you need to push yourself harder, or who will encourage you to see a therapist if you’re struggling.
Unfortunately, the role of relationships in our well-being is often overlooked by healthcare providers. Dunkel Schetter says that although they invest a lot in interventions designed to address the major determinants of health, such as smoking or obesity, they rarely focus on what’s known about the importance of relationships.