Relationships can be defined in different ways (for example, friendships, family members, etc.) but healthy relationships all depend on a few key elements: open communication, healthy boundaries, mutual respect, and support for one another.
All relationships exist on a spectrum from healthy to abusive, with unhealthy relationships somewhere in the middle.
A Healthy Relationship means both you and the other person are:
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communicating
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respectful
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trusting honest
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equal
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making mutual choices
A Unhealthy Relationship means both you and the other person are:
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not communicating
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disrespectful
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not trusting
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dishonest
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trying to take control
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pressured into activities
An Abusive Relationship means both you and the other person are:
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communicating in a hurtful or threatening way
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mistreating
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controlling
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isolating
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accusing the other of things that are untrue
Relationships look different depending on the community and culture that we live in. remember to consider your individual circumstances when deciding how to best respond. Be sure to keep an eye out for the warning signs of abuse. Always use your best judgment when seeking support and reach out to people who you know and trust.
More resources :
Love Is Respect is an organization that offers 24/7 support to teens and young adults with questions or concerns about dating and relationships.
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Call 1-866-33-1-9474
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Text 'LOVEIS' to 22522
National Domestic Violence Hotline offers 24/7 to survivors of abuse .
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Call 1-800-799-7233