Humans are one of the most social animals on the planet and a huge part of that comes down to relationships. Relationships can be positive or negative and are an important component of a healthy life. They help people get through the tough times, feel good about themselves and give them a sense of purpose. Having a loving partner makes many people happy and that is why they continue to work at their relationships to make it better.
Whether it’s family, friends or coworkers, relationships are a big part of your social network. You may have some that are close and emotional while others you only see on occasion or at events. Those relationships are what makes up your support system and is important to your physical and mental health.
The different types of relationships include:
Friends: Friends are the people you enjoy spending time with. You can laugh with them, talk about problems and do other things together. You might hang out with your friends on weekends or even go to work with them, but they are more than just acquaintances. Friendships can be short-term or long-term.
Close Friends: Close friends are the people that you spend most of your time with. These are the people that you can trust and confide in. They might have a lot in common with you or be very different from you but you enjoy being around them and they are your support system.
Family: Parents, siblings and other relatives are your family. They are the people you can depend on for a hug, a helping hand or a listening ear. They are the foundation of your life and should be treated with love.
Acquaintances: These are the people that you recognize but may not know their names. You may wave or say “hello” when you see them. They may live next door or work in the same building and you see them occasionally. They are not your friends but you don’t dislike them.
Healthy Relationships: In a healthy relationship, both partners treat each other with respect and value each other’s opinions. There is open communication and the couple can share their feelings without fear of being judged or attacked. They also don’t fight or argue over small issues or things that aren’t important to them. They can have honest conversations about their needs, goals and dreams.
If you have a partner who supports you through the ups and downs of life, you can be more confident and take risks to follow your passions. A supportive relationship helps you feel strong and can even add years to your lifespan. This is because a supportive environment can lead to lower stress levels, restful slumber and improved mood. A loving partner can also help you maintain a healthier lifestyle and avoid unhealthy habits like smoking or overeating. Having a stable and happy relationship can help you stay motivated to keep working on your goals no matter what.