It is important to remember that the connections, the relationships and the people in our lives add to our wellbeing and protect and sustain our mental health.
Evidence suggests that friendships and family relationships can be some of the greatest sources of happiness. Check out our tips below for building healthy long-lasting relationships.
Supporting friends and family is important in maintaining healthy relationships. It’s important to value each other’s opinions and respect their choices (even though we may not always agree with them). We should aim to listen non-judgementally and offer encouragement.
Relationships should not rely on what the other person can do for you. There should be a willingness to work together and make shared decisions. In relationships we can ask of others but we should not expect. With co-operation comes a willingness to make compromises and accept change. Also it is important to work together to create mutually satisfying resolutions to any conflict that might occur within the relationship.
In relationships honest communication is key. Not just what we say but how we
say it is vital. We need to be mindful of our tone of voice. When we talk it should be like a normal conversation. We should aim not to raise our voice or take on an aggressive tone, but rather remain calm. Equally non-verbal communication is also important. This might involve being respectful of someone’s personal space. Show someone you value them by giving them the time to communicate, don’t be distracted by other things around you like your mobile phone or the TV.
In order to communicate well, co-operate with, and support friends and family it is important that we listen to each other. We should pay attention to what is being said, how it is being said and what the person’s body language might be telling us. We need to be patient when listening, let the person finish before responding to what they’ve said.
Remember honest communication can be difficult. Sometimes, in being honest with each other, we need to say something that we know might be tough for the other person to hear.
Laugh with your friends and family. Create fun together. Laughter helps bonds develop between people, increasing happiness and intimacy. It also triggers healthy physical changes in the body. Laughter strengthens your immune system, boosts your energy, diminishes pain, and protects you from damaging effects of stress.
Indulge in random acts of kindness towards those we care about. It’s the little, unexpected
things that can mean the most to your friends and family. Be willing to nurture those close to you, show compassion towards them rather than being critical. Through compassion we not only boost the wellbeing of those around us but also it helps us feel better about ourselves. If things do get too much for you, don’t be afraid to ask for help. Whether talking to friends, family or a professional, getting things out in the open can help put things into perspective.