What’s a healthy relationship?

All relationships are different.

Everyone is different, with their own individual opinions on how relationships work.

Nobody should feel pressured to do things that they don’t want to in a relationship or feel trapped or isolated by being in a relationship they don’t want to be in.

Different people like and want different things from their relationships, and sometimes this can make things confusing!

A healthy relationship checklist

In your relationship do you feel:

• Supported?
• Safe?
• Happy?
• Trusted?
• Loved?

Do you have fun?

Can you talk about things that are worrying you and will your partner listen to you?

If you aren’t happy in any of your relationships (this might be with a partner, friend or a family member) then the best thing you can do is talk to someone.

Also take a look at our ‘Are you in a healthy relationship?’ quiz.

‘Emotional abuse’ can be a common issue for young people in relationships – this might start as someone ignoring your feelings or expecting you to do things you don’t want to, but can quickly become more frightening and controlling.

It’s important to talk honestly with your partner, friends or family about hoe you’re feeling, so that you can make decisions about relationships that are right for you.

How to get help

If you have any more questions on this area or would like to speak to somebody about this topic, have a look at the links or search for your local services in the blue box below. Alternatively you can always contact your school nurse.

• w: Childline - Friends, relationships and sex
  
• w: Childline - Healthy and unhealthy relationships