Did you know that relationships play a huge role in your mental health? It's vital to step back and see if the relationship you are in uplifts or drains you. Setting boundaries is key. It is crucial to know where you stand and protect your mental health. Drawing from expert advice from Mass General Brigham McLean, Psychology Today, and Charlie Health, we'll explore the impact of relationships on mental health. Together let's learn practical tips for setting boundaries to make healthier connections.
Why Relationships Matter: Humans are social creatures. Having close connections with others, especially romantic ones, can really make a difference in how you feel mentally. Studies show that people who are in happy relationships tend to feel less stressed. They also feel less worried and sad compared to people who are in relationships that aren’t going well. If you are in a healthy relationship it feels like your life has more purpose. This is because you aren’t only living for yourself but for your partner too.
Having Someone to Lean On: When things get hard having a partner who supports you can make a big difference. They can listen when you need to talk. Say kind things to cheer you up or just be there with you. Having someone like this can help you feel less lonely and help you bounce back when things are rough. Being with someone is also a way to get physical affection. Research has shown that this can lower anxiety and depression. Along with increasing the strength of your immune system.
Feeling Less Stressed: Love can help you deal with stress better. This happens when you show affection. When you hold hands or hug your body releases a chemical called oxytocin. Which makes you feel closer to your partner and happier overall. Your partner can also boost your well-being. This could be pushing each other to eat a healthy diet or strive for a better work-life balance. It's vital for couples to do healthy activities together. Supporting each other's interests and having shared hobbies can bring you closer. Knowing you have someone who cares about you and the things you care about can lead to a less stressful life.
When Relationships Are Tough: Sometimes, relationships can negatively impact our mental health. It's crucial to take a moment to look at whether your relationship is doing more harm than good. Signs of trouble include the following:
- Constant criticism
- Manipulation
- Explosive anger and outbursts
- Keeping you from friends and family
- Gaslighting
- Shaming
- Passive-aggressive Behavior
- Jealousy and possessiveness
Knowing these signs can help identify and address toxic dynamics before they worsen your mental health or put you in danger.
Taking Care of Yourself: If you notice your relationship is making you feel bad all the time it may be time to get help. This could be talking to a therapist together, or seeing one on your own. If things don’t get better even after trying to fix them. It’s important to think about yourself. This could be setting clear rules about how you communicate with your partner, or even deciding to end the relationship if it’s really hurting your mental health.
Visit Clinicas: Dealing with relationship problems can be hard. It’s really important to think about how it’s affecting your mental health. At Clinicas del Camino Real, Inc., we’re here to help. We offer different kinds of support to help you. Dr. Sandra Alvarado the Director of Mental Health Services here at Clinicas wants you to know that,
“Having a strong support system comprised of those who love you and whom you love is important when taking care of your mental health.”
Make an appointment today with Dr. Alvarado or one of our Mental Health team members. To learn tools on how to maintain a healthy relationship and be the best you can be!