5 Keys to a Healthy Relationship - From Our Therapists

Relationships are tricky. There are ups and downs, unforeseen obstacles, and they require both partners to be putting in effort in order to last. While it’s true that every relationship is different, there are practices that can be generally applied to building a healthy relationship.

Here are some key components of a healthy relationship:

1. Communication:

Open and honest communication is arguably the most important part of a healthy relationship. Communication is a two-way street; you and your partner must be able to express thoughts and emotions, but also actively listen to what the other has to say. This will allow you and your partner to be on the same page and know what one another’s expectations are for the relationship. Do not be afraid to have uncomfortable conversations – bottling up your emotions rather than communicating them will hurt your relationship in the long run.

2. Respect:

In a healthy relationship, you and your partner must have mutual respect, even if you don’t always agree with them. Respecting your partner’s beliefs or boundaries means working to understand where they are coming from, and not trying to change them. Always treat your partner how you would want to be treated.

3. Boundaries:

Setting and respecting boundaries is a fundamental part of a healthy relationship. It’s best to clearly establish clear boundaries early on in the relationship.

4. Trust:

Trust is not given automatically; it is something that takes time and effort to build between partners. Show your partner, through both words and actions, that you follow through on commitments and keep your word.

5. Support:

Provide your partner with positivity and encouragement as you support them. The form support takes depends on your partner’s needs. Communication is key in determining how you can best support your partner.

Relationships are hard work. You have to nurture your relationship in order for it to bloom and become the type of relationship you want for yourself.

4 Ways to Set Healthy Family Boundaries - From Our Family Therapists

Thanksgiving is about a week away, which marks the beginning of the holiday season and the inevitable family get-togethers. Being around family is a wonderful way to celebrate, but these reunions can be stressful and dysfunctional without clear-cut boundaries in place.

It is important to take the time to establish and respect boundaries within your family, as this will help build a healthy dynamic.

Here are 4 tips to set healthy family boundaries:

1. Identify and communicate your boundaries in advance.

Be direct and clear when expressing what your boundaries are and why they are important to you. This gives your family time to process this information and better respect your needs.

2. Practice being assertive while also being kind.

If someone oversteps your boundaries, you can firmly remind them of your threshold without being confrontational. Your family is more likely to respect your boundaries when you set them in a friendly way.

3. Take a step back when you need to.

When someone crosses the line, remember you have the option to remove yourself from the situation. If confronting or arguing with them is not going to be constructive, do not be afraid to walk away.

4. In the event your boundaries are not respected, prepare your coping skills in advance.

It is better to think up strategies ahead of time and not need them, then to wish you had them later. Coping strategies include going for a walk, taking deep breaths, playing with your pet, and listening to your favorite music.

When we spend time with our loved ones it is important to prioritize your needs and remember that you matter too!