What Do Healthy Relationships Looks Like?

One of Samaritan's specialties is working with individuals and couples to help them recognize, build, and improve healthy relationships in their lives. How do you know if your relationship is healthy? If you're not in a relationship, do you know what characteristics to look for in another person and how to create a strong bond

According to relationship experts, Drs. John and Julie Gottman, building a sound relationship is much like building a sound house. "The weight-bearing walls of the house and the foundation of a quality relationship, are trust and commitment. A sound relationship house isn't built in a day. It's constructed brick by brick. How you decorate it is up to you - every couple is completely unique- but the levels are fundamental." Below are seven signs of a healthy relationship:

1. You are equal partners – You both have a say in the relationship. One partner doesn’t see themselves as better or more powerful in the relationship. You make decisions together and openly discuss whatever you’re dealing with, like relationship problems and sexual choices.
2. You have mutual respect - Partners in love think highly of each other, despite their flaws. They appreciate each other’s dignity, values, and decisions whether they agree or not. They can set boundaries about what they’re comfortable with, and those boundaries are respected.
3. You trust each other - Strong couples trust each other in numerous areas such as finances, parenting, and faithfulness. Predictability, dependability, and faith in one’s partner are all indicators of a trusting connection.
4. You communicate honestly & openly – Healthy communication requires respect and empathy. Partners must be active listeners and apply the principle of listening to understand and not listening to reply. This type of listening creates a deeper understanding of what is communicated, contributing to a healthier relationship.
5. You support each other – You encourage each other to keep growing and are supportive of one another’s goals. When something negative happens, you and your partner offer each other comfort and support. You also spend time apart to have some alone time, meet with friends, and pursue your own interests.
6. You have fun together –You and your partner enjoy each other’s company. Life isn’t always a party, but your relationship is happy and you have fun together most of the time.
7. You’re not afraid to speak up - Both partners can gently bring up an issue of concern, rather than communicating harshly with criticism. You can resolve conflict without feeling belittled, judged, or ignored.

Samaritan Counseling Center offers resources to help you gain the skills to build healthy relationships and mend those that need repair.

• Individual counseling
• Couples counseling
• Classes to help survivors of Domestic Violence heal and maintain a healthy lifestyle and relationships.

We are here to help. Call us at 909-985-0513 to schedule an appointment.