Relationships are the social connections that help keep your mental, emotional and physical health in check. Having strong relationships can lower your risk for depression, anxiety and other mental health problems.

Whether you’re in a romantic relationship or not, you should be building and nurturing your relationships. A healthy relationship is characterized by trust, openness, honesty and affection.

A healthy relationship is also a place where two people communicate effectively and listen to each other’s nonverbal cues. Miscommunication can lead to upset, hurt or confusion, so it’s important to make sure you understand what your partner is saying before you speak.

You should also make an effort to spend time with each other and be there for one another in times of stress or need. This can be especially important if you have children, as it can decrease the impact that stress has on your mental and physical health.

Being in a relationship is like having someone to talk to who can support you and offer encouragement in your good times and bad. This type of support can reduce stress and help you live a more positive life.

A healthy relationship is a place where you put your partner’s needs above your own and are willing to do whatever it takes for them. This is a selfless act and can be very rewarding. It can be tough to maintain a healthy relationship but it’s worth it for the benefits.