Relationships with those closest to us – our parents, partners, siblings, children, friends and colleagues – are critical to our well-being. Healthy, abuse-free relationships are built on open communication, trust and respect, and are able to withstand challenges, disagreements and friction.
A healthy, secure relationship requires:
- Emotional support with boundaries
- Honesty, trust and respect
- Kindness and fairness
- Compromise
- Economic equality
- Shared responsibilities
- Mutual and individual goals and interests
Unhealthy or abusive relationships are based on power over someone, control, fear, lies, threats and manipulation. If you think your relationship is not healthy, your safety and wellbeing is the most important thing.
Do you recognize the signs of a healthy relationship?
If you think you may be in an unhealthy relationship – talk to someone you trust. Help is available if you need it.