October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month

Healthy vs. Unhealthy Relationships

From UW-Seattle Hall Health Center

Relationships are a necessary part of healthy living, but there is no such thing as a perfect relationship. Relationships, from acquaintances to romances, have the potential to enrich our lives and add to our enjoyment of life. However, these same relationships can cause discomfort and even harm.

A healthy relationship is when two people develop a connection based on mutual respect, trust, honesty, equality, and fondness. A solid one also means each person maintains their own separate identities. And of course, maintaining communication is critical. A healthy relationship should bring more happiness than stress into your life.

All of these things take work and in reality, each relationship is most likely a combination of both healthy and unhealthy characteristics. Relationships need to be maintained and healthy relationships take work. Work to foster these healthy behaviors within your relationship, and actively work to identify and reduce the unhealthy ones.

It is also paramount to know what the signs are that you should be seeking professional help. The most extreme is if a partner ever tries to harm you physically or force you to do something sexually. Professional help can also help you decide if you should accept, improve, or end the relationship. If you have a history of staying in unhealthy relationships, you should also seek help.

Remember that you are never alone. There are many resources right here at Sigonella available to support you. Contact The Fleet and Family Support Center at 095-56-4291 and request to speak to a counselor, or sign up for one of our many classes that promote healthy families and relationships. The chaplains are also available for fully confidential counseling. And if you are in fear for your safety, immediately call dispatch at 095-86-1911.

SIGNS OF A HEALTHY RELATIONSHIP

Respecting each other’s individuality

Having activities apart from one another

Allowing and encouraging other relationships with friends and family

Openly expressing yourselves without fear of consequences

Taking interest in one another’s activities

Having the option of privacy

SIGNS OF AN UNHEALTHY RELATIONSHIP

Putting one person before the other

Feeling pressure to change who you are for the other person

Feeling worried when you disagree with the other person

Feeling pressure to quit activities you enjoy

Having to justify your actions

Feeling obligated or forced to have sex

Noticing that arguments are not settled fairly

Yelling or physical violence during an argument

Controlling or manipulating behavior

Having no common friends

Having a lack of respect for each others’ friends and family