With Valentine’s Day right around the corner, you may be surprised to know how important those special people in our lives are for our mental health and wellness. Through our interactions with friends, partners, parents, step-parents, or even our siblings, we establish certain behaviors that either positively or negatively influence the way we feel about ourselves and the boundaries we set for others.

The Mental Health Benefits of Social Relationships

Stepping away from our computer screens and smartphones to spend time with loved ones can actually help lower blood pressure, boost energy levels, and motivate us to bounce back from feelings of stress or anxiety. However, because our relationships and mental health are so closely linked, it’s important that we surround ourselves with positives connections and make the effort to instill healthy habits in our interactions with others.

As part of your ongoing mental health care, you’ll want to understand and recognize the differences between a healthy and unhealthy interaction.

Signs of A Healthy Relationship 

  • You share a deep trust with the other individual
  • You know when to let issues go
  • You’re not afraid to express your feelings or concerns
  • You feel encouraged and inspired to pursue your ambitions
  • You engage in healthy social activities with others

Signs of an Unhealthy Relationship

  • You feel anxious or afraid about upsetting someone
  • You’re constantly fighting
  • You’re made to feel guilty for things that are out of your control
  • You’re belittled or talked down to
  • You’re afraid to be honest with an individual

What is Relationship Counseling? 

Relationship counseling or couples therapy allows you and your partner to meet with an experienced mental health provider to explore the patterns of your relationships in a safe, comfortable environment. This provides you and your significant other an opportunity to communicate any unhealthy behaviors that are causing you stress, anxiety, or depression, as well as work together towards a healthier solution.

What is Family Therapy?

Family therapy is a form of psychotherapy that works to resolve any unhealthy issues that are preventing loved ones from communicating and working together. Issues may range from financial hardships, unresolved arguments and buried emotions, or trouble coping with a family member’s illness or addiction.

Feeling alone in a relationship is a good indication that it’s time to ask for help. If you and a loved one are experiencing trust issues, financial constraints, or an emotional disconnect that’s putting your mental health at risk, contact the Calli Institute. Our experienced therapists will work with you and your partner (or family) to understand your specific situation and develop a holistic approach that keeps your relationship at the center of the discussion.

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