LOVE THAT LIFTS YOU UP: PILLARS OF HEALTH RELATIONSHIPS

 

When it comes to relationships, whether romantic, familial, or friendships, we all want to build connections that are strong, supportive, and fulfilling. A healthy relationship is a sanctuary where both people feel safe and understood, and whilst each relationship is unique, there are fundamental principles that build them. 

Trust – “I’ve got your back!”

Trust is the cornerstone of a healthy relationship. It’s the unspoken and mutual assurance that both partners have each other’s backs. Trust builds over time through honesty, transparency, and consistency, and when present it allows individuals to be their most vulnerable.

With trust, each person believes that the other will act in their best interest, and they know that there are no secrets or lies. This doesn’t mean that misunderstandings won’t arise, but they are resolved with openness and respect.

Communication – “Let’s talk it out!”

Effective communication is the key to resolving conflicts and fostering intimacy. In a healthy relationship, both individuals feel comfortable expressing their needs, desires, and concerns without fear of judgement or retaliation.

Communication is not just about speaking; it’s about listening too.

It’s about hearing your partner’s words, interpreting their emotions, and responding with care and understanding.

Healthy communication doesn’t involve manipulation or silence. It is not about winning or controlling the conversation, but about creating an open dialogue where both people feel heard. When communication flows freely, problems can be tackled together, making the relationship stronger.

Respect – “Respect my boundaries”

Respect is one of the most important elements in any healthy relationship. It is the understanding that each person has their own thoughts, feelings, and boundaries. Respect means honouring those boundaries without pressure or coercion and treating each other with dignity, even during disagreements or stressful situations. A relationship built on respect fosters equality and promotes individual growth, while allowing both partners to support one another in their pursuits.

Empathy – “Take a walk in my shoes”

Empathy is the ability to understand and share the emotions of another. It’s about truly listening and feeling your partner’s joy, pain, or frustration, as if it were your own.

Empathy allows each person to connect on a deeper level and create a sense of emotional safety.

When empathy is present, misunderstandings are less likely to escalate because both individuals can approach each other with compassion rather than judgement. It encourages patience and allows for forgiveness when things don’t go as planned. Empathy makes each person feel validated in their emotional experience, which strengthens the bond between them.

Empowerment – “I lift you up and you lift me!”

A healthy relationship empowers both individuals to be their best selves, where instead of trying to control or limit each other, both partners work to encourage one another’s personal growth and success.

In a relationship rooted in empowerment, there is no room for insecurity, manipulation, or discouragement.

Both individuals are motivated by the desire to see each other succeed, and they celebrate each other’s achievements without feeling threatened. 

Care – “I care for you”

Care is the gentle, nurturing element that keeps the relationship alive and thriving. It’s about showing up for one another in both big and small ways, whether it’s through thoughtful gestures, kind words, or acts of support.

Care means making time for your partner, offering encouragement during difficult times, and showing appreciation for their presence in your life.

In a caring healthy relationship, both people prioritise each other’s well-being and happiness; there’s a commitment to growth, mutual respect, and understanding. Care is about checking in on one another, offering comfort when needed, and ensuring that both partners feel valued and loved.

Wrapping Up 

These six pillars create the framework for a healthy, loving relationship, but sometimes when one pillar is missing the presence of unhealthy behaviuors, such as manipulation, control, or a lack of respect, can creep in. Recognising when something feels off and paying attention to your emotional well-being are vital steps to ensure that a relationship remains healthy. 

At the end of the day, a healthy relationship is one where both people feel safe, supported, and uplifted. Abuse, whether emotional, physical, or psychological, is not part of a healthy dynamic, and if you are concerned that you or someone you know may be part of an unhealthy relationship, reach out to our Sophia Chatbot for round the clock confidential support and advice.

Remember, love should never come at the cost of your well-being.

 

 – Written by Natalie Brabben  for Spring ACT