A relationship is a connection between two people, something that’s like a bridge joining them together. A social relationship, which is healthy or unhealthy, has an impact on an individual. It can affect them physically, mentally, or emotionally. Now if the impact on the individual is for better or for worse, it will have either an advantage or disadvantage in health. A study done by Harvard University in 2012 states that if we are surrounded by people who love and care for us, our physical, emotional, and mental health will be more stable. 

How does a relationship come to be healthy or unhealthy... It depends on the “quality” of the relationship. It’s how the individuals manage conflict and stress, and how they respect, value, and trust one another. The concept of power is lost in a healthy relationship but is the number one priority in an unhealthy relationship. People need to identify if their relationship is healthy or unhealthy especially if the person is suffering from a mental health disorder. Toxic relationships can increase or worsen any mental illness and can lead the individual into a downward spiral. 

How Do You Identify a Toxic Relationship?

A toxic relationship is one where you feel unsupported, misunderstood, attacked, and physically drained when one’s well-being is threatened in some way. The constant lack of trust and support, the disrespect and rationalization for it. When the individual shows immense emotional unavailability and frequent conflicts, there is neglect and poor communication with no effort to try to make it better. 

Relationships have an impact on mental health, things like emotional support which is found in healthy relationships as it provides a safe space for individuals to express themselves. Supportive relationships can also act as a stress reducer, it also helps in giving a sense of belonging and connection. It also helps increase happiness and boosts life satisfaction. When there are good connections between people and strong bonds, generally, there are lower rates of anxiety and depression, and they show higher self-esteem, greater empathy, and a more cooperative relationship. There is mutual growth in both parties and open communication. 

There are three types of connections a person can have:

There are many ways of improving a relationship, it could be as small as reaching out to another and asking to meet or text them, telling them you’d like to be in touch with them. 

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Strategies for Maintaining Mental Health in Relationships

Firstly and most importantly, fostering open communication with the other individual can improve any relationship. Share feelings and concerns while being respectful of them. One can also set healthy boundaries with the individual so one can respect each other’s limits to ensure mutual comfort and trust. Prioritizing self-care can also help in managing one’s stress and maintaining their well being. Lastly, building a support system is of utmost importance as no matter what, these people will be there for you, they can provide balanced perspectives and additional resources when needed.  

In conclusion, something that everyone should remember is that a good relationship takes time and energy, individuals have to put in effort to make it work. It may take an immense amount of patience but it positively impacts your emotional and physical wellbeing. We can cultivate positive and supportive relationships by fostering open communication, setting healthy boundaries, and prioritizing self-care.

Contact a mental health expert at Heart It Out today for professional support!