6 Signs of a Healthy Relationship

There are signs of healthy relationships, just as there are red flags for unhealthy ones. Nearly everyone can relate to being in an unhealthy relationship. It's easy to see it when those we care about are in them, but sometimes it's harder to see when we are in the midst of one ourselves. Luckily, there is a lot of information from relationship experts online and in books about relationship red flags. But what about relationship green lights? What are the signs that you are in a healthy relationship? Read on to find out what I've learned about the six signs of a healthy relationship.

Healthy Relationships Have Common Traits

When I think of relationships, four primary categories come to mind: friends, family, romantic, and professional. There are different components that define healthy depending on the type of relationship we are discussing, but I also think there are a lot of commonalities as well.

No matter what the relationship parameters are, I know if I feel belittled, discounted, neglected, or undervalued, something isn't right. That's not to say people don't feel bad sometimes even when the relationship is healthy, but if I feel bad on a regular basis, that's a major red flag for me. Conversely, if I usually feel appreciated, heard, cared for and respected, I know I'm in a relationship that has potential.

6 Signs Your Relationship Is Healthy

1. The person shows a consistent interest in you. The person doesn't disappear for periods of time, making you wonder if you did something wrong. Healthy relationships feel safe.
2. The person follows through. Honesty and dependability are paramount in a healthy relationship.
3. Disagreements don't turn into big fights. When either of you gets scared, hurt, or angry, you should both be able to stay grounded and talk it through peacefully.
4. You feel respected and important. Even when the relationship is struggling, you should always feel certain of your value to the other person.
5. There is a mutual give and take. In a healthy relationship, things aren't always equal, but you should look for relationships in which the other person asks you questions about you and is genuinely interested in your life experiences, ideas, and opinions.
6. There is open communication. Do you feel like you can talk about anything with this person? Is this person approachable, nonjudgmental, and caring towards you? If it feels like important topics are off-limits, or you can't get the other person to open up and be vulnerable with you, they may not be safe for you to be vulnerable with either.

What signs do you look for to indicate your relationships are healthy? Leave me your thoughts in the comments.