Relationships are the cornerstone of your social support network and play a critical role in both mental and physical health. While different types of relationships can vary in their nature and intensity, they all contribute to your overall well-being and help you navigate life’s challenges.

A relationship is any kind of association or connection between people, whether intimate or platonic. It can be positive or negative and can take many forms, from marriage to casual dating to ethical nonmonogamy. When most people think of relationships, they are referring to romantic relationships, which typically involve both emotional and physical intimacy, some level of ongoing commitment, and monogamy (i.e., romantic and sexual exclusivity between two people).

While romantic relationships are often the focus of discussions about relationships, there are many other kinds of relationships that can be beneficial to your overall wellbeing. Close friends, family members, and coworkers can all be important parts of your support system and can offer a variety of emotional and psychological benefits.

The gratifying feeling of being cheered on by a loved one can boost your self-esteem, give you the confidence to take risks, and help you feel more resilient during difficult times. The security that comes with having a supportive partner can also reduce your anxiety and make it easier to sleep and concentrate. Research has even shown that the presence of a spouse or partner can add years to your lifespan.

In addition to the psychological and emotional benefits of relationships, they can also provide a sense of belonging and meaning in your life. Having a group of friends who you trust can support you emotionally and help you cope with stress. They can also provide a social outlet for your creativity and help you develop skills that may not be as easily learned in isolation.

Ultimately, a healthy relationship is about respecting each other as individuals and accepting that you both have unique interests and perspectives that shape your lives. Trying to change your partner to fit a mold is not only unrealistic, but it can also destroy the very identities that attracted you to them in the first place.

If you are in a committed relationship, it is also essential to communicate clearly and regularly about your needs and wants. This means being open about things like your hobbies, values, and dreams. It also involves recognizing and understanding your partner’s nonverbal cues so that you can respond in a way that is most meaningful to them. Having honest conversations about your expectations can help to avoid miscommunication and conflict down the road.