Regardless of whether we are talking about a relationship between friends, intimate or sexual relationships with a spouse/partner, or a working relationship with our co-workers, the qualities of a healthy relationship are similar. For example, in a healthy relationship, thoughts and opinions are respected, even if there is disagreement. There is trust that support will be there. Healthy relationships provide a sense of safety and commitment.

Unhealthy relationships drain us. They can be one-sided, in that one partner does all the work to keep the relationship going. One partner feels disrespected and devalued. In some cases, unhealthy relationships may be abusive: physically, sexually, or emotionally.

In abusive situations, it is important to know that help is available to anyone who needs it. The consequences of unhealthy relationships can be far-reaching, affecting those present in other areas of our lives.

Healthy relationships encourage us to grow, and they encourage others to grow too. If we learn how to empathize with one another, we create stronger relationships. We understand our influence on others, and we can choose to do good things with that influence. Through empathy, we can even understand our world better and can affect change in positive ways.