We have different kinds of relationships with the people in our lives. We can have friendships, romantic relationships and family relationships.

What is important in any type of relationship we have with someone is that it is healthy and makes us feel good.

What does a healthy relationship look like?

A healthy relationship involves:

• Communication
• Respect
• Trust
• Honesty
• Equality
• Feeling comfortable to be yourself

Communication

Good communication in a relationship means that both you and the other person are good at talking and listening. It means you feel comfortable to talk to them about things that make you happy, or sad, scared or excited – and that they can talk to you about all of this too. It also means you feel like the other person really listens to and tries to understand you when you talk to them. You feel like your opinions and thoughts mean something, and aren’t silly or stupid. And it also means you listen to the other person and give them your full attention. You feel comfortable to disagree with them on things and are able to talk about it.

Respect

Respect is about caring about other people’s feelings, beliefs and opinions even if they aren’t the same as yours. It means caring and showing consideration about another persons life.

Trust

Trust means that you feel safe with another person, and that they wouldn’t do anything to harm you on purpose. You believe what they say to be true, and they believe what you say too.

Honesty

Honesty is when another person tells the truth. You can be honest with the other person, and they can be honest with you.

Equality

Equality is when you both feel equal – you can compromise on things together – and it doesn’t feel like either of you have more power or control over the other person.

Feeling comfortable to be yourself

This means you feel like you can wear what you like, try new things, enjoy your hobbies, and express yourself however you want to. You can be yourself and not feel like you have to hide certain parts of your personality, or the things you like, from the other person.

Disagreements happen in relationships, and things won’t always be perfect. What is important is that you feel safe and happy with the other person.