The 10 Commandments of a healthy relationship:
Respect- Respect is the foundation of all healthy relationships. To respect someone means to care about them and treat them in a way that honours their feelings, needs, and rights.
Trust- Having a sense of trust is very important. Trust involves having confidence in someone or something.
Communication- Communication is an essential part of a healthy relationship. Each person needs to be able to express themselves. Learning to communicate your needs, expectations, and boundaries are key skills.
Disagreements- Disagreements are a natural part of life. At times, disagreements can result in a conflict of varying degrees. However, it is important to understand how to solve conflicts in a fair, open, and healthy way.
Independence- It is important that both people in a relationship function independently. Making choices and decisions outside of your relationship helps you develop in a healthy way.
Equality- Your relationship should be based on equality. But what does equality look like? In an equal relationship, everyone feels that they have the power to make decisions, express their opinions, share their feelings, and feel respected.
Support- Healthy relationships are about supporting and encouraging one another. It is also important to be able to ask for support when you need it.
Safety- You should feel comfortable and safe. A healthy relationship does not involve physical, sexual, or emotional violence. Both people should feel their presence is valued and their thoughts and feelings are encouraged and welcomed.
Empathy- Empathy is very important. When we try to relate to what another person is going through, we’re being empathetic. In a relationship, this means that we try to understand the other person’s feelings, wishes, and needs.
Fun- Although it may seem obvious, your relationship should be fun. Relationships are about doing things together and enjoying each other’s company.