Healthy relationship fundamentals provided by Statistics Canada. Infographic by Rachel Gilmour

In a world where likes, comments and virtual hugs often replace face-to-face interactions, the essence of truly connecting with one another can easily be lost. Yet, the need for genuine, healthy relationships remains as vital as ever.

Whether it is a friendship, romantic partnership, or a family bond, the foundations of a healthy relationship are built on mutual respect, trust, open communication and individuality.

Here are some key strategies thanks to Lethbridge Polytechnic Wellness Services to consider when building or maintaining a healthy relationship.

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Effective Communication

Communication serves as the fundamental cornerstone of any healthy relationship. It’s not just about talking but also about listening – actively and empathetically. Equally important is the clear and direct expression of your feelings and needs. Avoiding assumptions and being honest about what you want and need from the relationship can prevent misunderstandings and conflicts. It’s also crucial to address conflicts constructively when they arise. This means staying calm, being respectful and focusing on finding a solution rather than winning an argument.

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Avoid Comparison 

Maya Ichikawa, a mental health therapist in Wellness Services at Lethbridge Polytechnic, emphasizes certain feelings can overwhelm a relationship.

“Try to avoid comparison – whether to past relationships or to others’ relationships if you’re currently in one,” said Ichikawa.

Comparison to other relationships or other people can be dangerous because of what it leads to. This could lead to disconnection and withdrawal, not sharing your thoughts and feelings, and not being together on things which matter to you. It also leads to a selfish, one-sided relationship.

We don’t exist in a relationship purely to have our needs met. We exist to love and serve each other.

Every relationship is different and everyone has their own unique relationship.

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Building Trust and Honesty

Trust is the base of any healthy relationship. It is built over time through consistent actions and behaviours.

Being reliable and keeping promises helps to establish a strong foundation of trust. Honesty also plays a crucial role in maintaining this trust.

Being truthful about your thoughts, feelings and actions – even when it’s uncomfortable – reinforces the sense of security and dependability in the relationship.

Togetherness

Corrine Janzen, the counseling intake coordinator for Wellness Services at Lethbridge Polytechnic shares when relationships get rocky, effort can be put in to ensure the relationship stays strong through those tough times.

“Sometimes we’re in relationships that may be unhealthy, so there may be that disrespect or the communication isn’t there. We’re so busy, we haven’t communicated in a long time. That doesn’t mean that the relationship has to end if both people in that relationship are willing to work and to get it back to healthy, that is possible. But if both people aren’t willing to work at that, then it may have to end,” said Janzen.

Togetherness creates the foundation of closeness and deep emotional connections. It’s the glue that pairs with communication which binds partners together through shared experiences.

In a healthy relationship, couples work together as a team. Working together is essential for making joint decisions, tackling challenges and achieving shared goals.

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Individuality

According to a blog piece, “Balancing Independence and Togetherness in Relationships” by SoulFacts on Sept. 23, 2023, on the Medium website, “Independence allows individuals to continue growing, learning and evolving. It ensures personal goals and aspirations remain a driving force.”

Independence within a relationship is not a sign of detachment or a lack of commitment. Instead, it plays a pivotal role in the health and longevity of the relationship.

Maintaining one’s individuality within a relationship is vital. It ensures both partners retain a strong sense of self, which can enrich the relationship.

Respect

According to the blog “What is respect in a healthy relationship?” on the Love is Respect website, “Respect isn’t about controlling someone or making them do what you want them to do.”

Respect is actually about the freedom to be yourself and to be loved for who you are.” Respect in a relationship is evident in how you treat each other daily.

Even when disagreements arise or conflicts occur, it is important to maintain respect and value one another’s opinions and feelings by engaging in constructive conversation.

Lethbridge’s Efforts and Future Hopes

In Lethbridge, the need for mental health support has been recognized and addressed through various initiatives.

The Lethbridge Opportunity Hub run by Wood’s Homes, which opened earlier this year, provides support for vulnerable youth, offering mental health services, addiction support and life skills training.

This hub is a significant step towards ensuring young people in the community have access to the resources they need to thrive.

Looking ahead, there is hope these efforts will continue to expand and evolve. The goal is to create a community where mental health support is readily accessible, and individuals feel empowered to seek help when needed.

By fostering healthy relationships and providing robust mental health services, Lethbridge aims to build a stronger, more resilient community.

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In conclusion, building and maintaining healthy relationships require effort, patience and a genuine desire to connect on a deeper level. By focusing on effective communication, trust, respect, honesty, togetherness and individuality, you can create strong, fulfilling relationships that stand the test of time. For more information on healthy relationships visit onelove.org.