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It’s true that relationships are not easy. They require work and hard conversations, but there is a difference between being in a healthy relationship or respectful relationship versus being in a disrespectful or unhealthy relationship. When in a relationship - whether it is your first or not, we can feel wrapped up in emotions! It's helpful to check in and see if our relationship is one that makes us feel good and respected. So, how do we know the difference and define if our relationships are respectful or not?
A healthy or respectful relationship is one that is defined by:
respect
equality
trust
positive communication
honesty
support
physical and emotional safety.
Ask yourself: How does my current relationship reflect these values?
A disrespectful or unhealthy relationship feels quite the opposite. It is often defined by:
power and control
physical, emotional or sexual abuse
digital abuse
unpredictable behaviours
humiliation
fear
Ask yourself: Have I ever experienced these in my current relationship?