Essential Traits That Define a Healthy Relationship

The characteristics of a good relationship can vary significantly from person to person and from one relationship to another. Each individual may prioritise different aspects of their relationship to varying degrees.  All relationships are unique, and that uniqueness is part of their beauty. However, several characteristics typically indicate a strong and healthy connection with someone. These may include: 

Trust - Relationships are built on trust, which is essential for good communication and forming strong bonds with people. Without trust, relationships are unlikely to survive.

Mindfulness - If you’re mindful of what you do and say, and of the other person’s needs, you’re more likely to maintain strong relationships. Issues can arise if you let your negative emotions affect others, or if you aren’t thinking of them. Remember, it’s a two-way street.

Mutual respect - As mentioned above, strong and supportive relationships rely heavily on mutual respect. You need a mutual understanding of needs and values, and to consider these regularly.

Good communication - Your relationships will be richer if you make an effort to keep in contact with those around you. Being honest and open with others also allows you to connect deeply and build long-lasting bonds.

Hypnotherapists, psychotherapists, and counsellors can empower you to understand and transform the challenges in your relationship. They can help you identify specific issues and inspire ways to rebuild the connection, if possible.

Types of relationship problems

There are many different types of problems that can arise during a relationship. These can vary depending on your unique circumstances and relationship dynamics. A relationship therapist can work with you together as a couple, separately as individuals, or with just one of you. While we may all be different, there are some common relationship issues that people frequently seek relationship counselling for.

Common types of relationship issues include:

Affairs, betrayals and infidelity

Betraying your spouse, partner, or close friend can cause a great deal of damage to your relationship by weakening or destroying that sense of trust. Whether it’s through infidelity, financial secrets, hidden addiction, or something else, betrayal can feel heartbreaking and, in some cases, can lead to relationships ending.

Affairs don’t happen without reason. Having a safe, neutral space to talk through the issues and emotions leading up to, surrounding, and following infidelity can help you to both open up about how you are feeling, what you want to happen next, and work together to decide how that’s going to happen. 

Separation and divorce

Sometimes couples will decide to separate or divorce without going through the practicalities, or considering if they may way to save the relationship. Separation counselling provides an opportunity for a breakup to be explored before a final decision is made. While not all relationships can continue, helping couples to get closure and move forward in a way that is healthy for their needs can be really beneficial in the future, particularly if children are involved.  

Arguments and communication issues 

Some couples may find that over time, the number of arguments they have increases, or that their communication begins to break down. Frequent arguments over little things like taking the rubbish out or whose turn it is to cook can be a sign of deeper issues that you may feel unable to express, or that you may not be entirely aware of, such as building resentment, anger, or sadness. 

Differing communication styles can also lead to issues, as one or both people may feel like the other has stopped listening to them, which can lead to assumptions being made or fostering negative feelings. While we all know the importance of communication, figuring out how to identify where things have gone wrong, and how to make positive, impactful and lasting changes, can be difficult. 

Trauma

Traumatic life events can have a significant impact on relationships. Whether individual or shared, while some people cope by pulling together, others find themselves pushing their partner away or feeling like their relationship is being pulled apart. These can all be natural reactions to big, upsetting events. Talking things through with a therapist can help you to process things, find new ways to communicate how you are feeling with your partner, and work through your trauma together.

Sexual issues and/or lack of intimacy 

Decreasing intimacy, sexual issues, or a lack of physical intimacy can lead to miscommunication and hurt feelings. One partner may feel undesirable, while another may feel shame or guilt. Any number of different problems can lead to sexual issues and a lack of intimacy within a relationship. While some issues may need to be addressed through your GP to rule out other medical problems, many common psychological factors can lead to a decreased sex drive, such as depression, stress, and even anxiety.