Relationship Violence & Healthy Relationships

 

Did you know…

According to the CDC (Centers for Disease Control) Intimate partner violence (IPV) is a serious, public health problem that affects millions of Americans. The term "intimate partner violence" or “relationship violence” describes physical, sexual, or psychological harm by a current or former partner or spouse. This type of violence can occur among couples in any types of relationships and does not require sexual intimacy.

The goal is to stop IPV (or relationship violence) before it begins or to identify it as soon as possible.  There is a lot to learn about IPV or relationship violence. We do know that strategies that promote healthy behaviors in relationships are important.

According to www.loveisrespect.org healthy relationships contain a few common key elements:

Communication is a key part to building a healthy relationship. The first step is making sure you both want and expect the same things -- being on the same page is very important. The following tips can help you create and maintain a healthy relationship:

·        Speak Up. In a healthy relationship, if something is bothering you, it’s best to talk about it instead of holding it in.

·        Respect Your Partner. Your partner's wishes and feelings have value. Let your significant other know you are making an effort to keep their ideas in mind. Mutual respect is essential in maintaining healthy relationships.

·        Compromise. Disagreements are a natural part of healthy relationships, but it’s important that you find a way to compromise if you disagree on something.

·        Be Supportive. Offer reassurance and encouragement to your partner. Also, let your partner know when you need their support. Healthy relationships are about building each other up, not putting each other down.

·        Respect Each Other’s Privacy. Just because you’re in a relationship, doesn’t mean you have to share everything and constantly be together. Healthy relationships require space.

Healthy Boundaries are important. Creating boundaries is a good way to keep your relationship healthy and secure. By setting boundaries together, you can both have a deeper understanding of the type of relationship that you and your partner want. Boundaries are not meant to make you feel trapped or like you’re “walking on eggshells.” Creating boundaries is not a sign of secrecy or distrust -- it's an expression of what makes you feel comfortable and what you would like or not like to happen within the relationship. Remember, healthy boundaries shouldn’t restrict your ability to:

·        Go out with your friends without your partner.

·        Participate in activities and hobbies you like.

·        Not have to share passwords to your email, social media accounts or phone.

·        Respect each other’s individual likes and needs.

Healthy Relationship Boosters: Even healthy relationships can use a boost now and then. You may need a boost if you feel disconnected from your partner or like the relationship has gotten stale. If so, find a fun, simple activity you both enjoy, like going on a walk,  going to a sporting event, or out to dinner and talk about the reasons why you want to be in the relationship. Talking to each other and remember why you “like” each other and why having a relationship is important  to each of you!!