8 Signs You're in an Emotionally Healthy Relationship

We all want to be in a healthy, happy relationship, but sometimes it's hard to tell if our relationship is as strong as it could be...

We all want to be in a healthy, happy relationship.

But sometimes it's hard to tell if our relationship is as strong as it could be.

We all know that relationships take work, and even the best have ups and downs.

So how can you tell if you're in an emotionally healthy relationship? Here are signs to look for.   

If you need more information about couples counseling, Overcomers can definitely help with that. 

1). You Communicate Openly and Honestly

In an emotionally healthy relationship, you feel safe communicating your thoughts and feelings to your partner.

You know that you can share anything with them, without fear of judgment or criticism.

You also feel comfortable setting boundaries and know that your partner will respect them.   

2). You Support Each Other's Goals and Dreams

In a healthy relationship, you encourage each other to pursue your goals and dreams.

You understand that each of you has different ambitions, and you are supportive of each other's pursuits.

You also feel proud of your partner's accomplishments, and celebrate their successes along with them.

3). You enjoy Each Other's Company

Spending time together is something you both look forward to.

No matter what you're doing, whether it's going on a date or just watching TV at home, you enjoy each other's company.

You don't feel like you have to walk on eggshells around each other or worry about what might happen if you say the wrong thing.

4). You Respect Each Other's Differences

In a healthy relationship, you accept each other for who you are—flaws and all.

You don't try to change each other, or sweep difficult topics under the rug.

Instead, you embrace each other's differences and know that they make your relationship stronger. 

5). You Trust Each Other Implicitly 

In a healthy relationship, there is no such thing as secrets or lies.

You trust each other implicitly and know that whatever happens, you will face it together.

This foundation of trust allows you to build a strong emotional connection with each other—the cornerstone of any healthy relationship. 

6). You're Able to Have Difficult Conversations Without Fear

There will be times when you need to have difficult conversations about things that are bothering you.

If you're in an emotionally healthy relationship, you should feel like you can have these conversations without fear of being judged or rejected.

You should know that your partner is open to hearing your thoughts and feelings, even if they don't always agree with them.

7). You Feel Like an Equal in the Relationship

Both partners should feel like they are on equal footing.

This doesn't mean that everything is always 50/50, but it does mean that each person's needs and feelings are considered and respected equally.

If you feel like your partner values your opinion and treats you as an equal, it's a good sign that the relationship is emotionally healthy. 

8). You have Separate Interests and Hobbies Outside of the Relationship

It's important to have separate interests and hobbies outside of the relationship to maintain a sense of individuality and keep things fresh.

If you find that all you ever do is spend time with your partner and never do anything on your own, it may be a sign that you're too dependent on them for validation and fulfillment.

Frequently Asked Questions about Emotionally Healthy Relationships

How can I tell if my relationship is emotionally healthy?

There are a few key indicators that can help you to tell if your relationship is emotionally healthy. First, do you and your partner feel safe communicating with each other? Do you feel like you can express your emotions freely, without judgment or criticism? Are there mutual respect's needs and boundaries? Are you both willing to compromise when necessary? If you answered "yes" to all of these questions, then it's likely that you have an emotionally healthy relationship.

What are some signs that my relationship is not emotionally healthy?

There are a few key signs that may indicate that your relationship is not as emotionally healthy as it could be. First, do you or your partner feel like you have to walk on eggshells to avoid conflict? Do you find yourself withholding information or emotions to keep the peace? Do you ever feel like your partner is trying to control or manipulate you? If you answered "yes" to any of these questions, then it's possible that your relationship could be improved.

How can I improve my emotional health in my relationship?

If you're looking to improve your emotional health in your relationship, there are a few key things that you can do. First, make sure that you're communicating openly and honestly with your partner. Second, make sure that you're respecting each other's needs and boundaries. Third, be willing to compromise when necessary. And fourth, always show kindness and understanding towards each other.

What should I do if I'm in an emotionally unhealthy relationship?

If you're in an emotionally unhealthy relationship, the best thing that you can do is seek professional help. A trained therapist can help you to identify the unhealthy patterns in your relationship and work with you to develop healthier ways of interacting with each other.

Conclusion

If you can identify with these signs, chances are you're in an emotionally healthy relationship.

While no relationship is perfect, it's important to make sure that the one you're in is a good fit for both partners.

Take a moment to evaluate your relationship and see if it meets these criteria.

Remember that all relationships have their ups and downs— but as long as you continue to communicate openly, support each other's dreams, enjoy each other's company, respect each other's differences, and trust each other implicitly, yours will withstand the test of time.

Overcomers Counseling is here for your couple's counseling needs. Feel free to reach out if you need more information. 

Author
Jennifer Luttman, LPC, ACS

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, and owner of Overcomers Counseling. I'm dedicated to helping individuals find strength and healing through life’s challenges. With a deep understanding of mental health and years of professional experience, I specialize in fostering hope and resilience while equipping her clients with tools to thrive. Passionate about empowering others, she creates a safe, supportive space where everyone feels seen, valued, and capable of overcoming obstacles on their path to well-being.

Common Questions about Trauma / PTSD Therapy

How do I know if a therapist is trauma-informed?

A trauma-informed therapist will typically have specialized training or experience in working with individuals who have experienced trauma.

Their approach should prioritize safety, trust, and empowerment. You can inquire about their background and approach during an initial consultation.

What should I look for in a trauma-informed addiction treatment program?

Look for a program that emphasizes safety, trust, empowerment, collaboration, and the integration of trauma-specific interventions alongside evidence-based addiction treatment approaches.

How does trauma-informed care help prevent relapse in addiction recovery?

Trauma-informed care addresses the root causes of addiction by helping individuals process and heal from past traumatic experiences. By addressing these underlying issues, individuals are better equipped to develop healthy coping mechanisms and maintain lasting recovery.

What should I do if I encounter a trigger during a therapy session?

Inform your therapist immediately if you experience a trigger during a session.

They can help guide you through grounding techniques or adjust the session's focus to ensure you feel supported and safe.

Can trauma-informed therapy be provided through telehealth or online services?

Yes, many trauma-informed therapists offer telehealth or online services, especially in light of the increased demand for remote support due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

When researching therapists or during initial consultations, inquire about their availability for virtual sessions and any associated requirements or limitations.

How can I prepare for potential triggers in social or public settings?

Develop a plan for coping with triggers in social or public settings.

This may include having grounding techniques or a self-soothing toolkit readily available, identifying exit strategies if needed, or enlisting the support of a trusted friend or family member.