Relationships
The relationships you have, whether they be romantic, sexual, platonic, or familial, are all a significant part of your identity, the way you see the world, and how you experience the ups and downs of life. It is no surprise that, because your relationships are such a big part of who you are, your health is greatly impacted by the quality of connections you have to those around you.
HOW DO RELATIONSHIPS IMPACT HEALTH?
The quality of relationships you have affect both your mental health as well as your physical health.
Research has shown that the more positive connections you have with those in your life the less likely you are to experience mental health issues like anxiety and depression. Having a sense of belonging and connection has also been shown to improve self-esteem and strengthen your ability to empathize and work with others.
Having positive relationships is also shown to strengthen your immune system and help you better fight illnesses and injuries. When you have difficulties in relationships or struggle with loneliness, you may experience challenges with sleep, elevated blood pressure, and increase cortisol (a stress hormone).
HOW CAN THERAPY HELP WITH RELATIONSHIPS?
Therapy can help you explore how the relationships in your life may be impacting your mental health and overall day-to-day life. It’s common in therapy to work on:
Libido differences in romantic and/or sexual relationships
Non monogamy
Infidelity
Communication skills (i.e. conflict management)
Boundary setting (i.e. in romantic relationships, professional dynamics at work, with family etc.)
Caregiver issues
Grief and loss
Social anxiety and phobias