Relationships take many forms, from friendships to romantic relationships and even the relationships we have with our roommates. Every relationship is unique and each person brings important pieces to the table, such as values, strengths and interests. These individual characteristics are what allow us to grow and learn from one another but can also cause points of tension and challenge within a relationship.
It is important to learn and practice skills to navigate relational challenges in order to foster more respectful, positive relationships in your life. Relationships should bring us joy and fulfillment. The information provided here is meant to help you build and sustain healthy relationships in your life.
Healthy Relationship Factors
Building a truly healthy relationship with a significant other, roommate, friend, peer or other involves on-going effort and is based upon the following factors:
Mutual Respect
A healthy relationship is built on respecting one another as equals as well as respecting the individuality, preferences and desires of one another.
Trust
Trust means being honest, reliable and considerate with one another in order to create a stable, strong relationship.
Honesty
Bringing one’s true, authentic self to a relationship is vital. Healthy relationships are free from deception and manipulation.
Understanding
As we learn the intricacies of one another in a relationship it is important to be open, empathetic and celebrate one another.
Appreciation
Healthy relationships bring joy and fulfillment to our lives. It is important to recognize and acknowledge each other and the positive role of the overall relationship in each other’s lives.
Support
By building each other up, we deepen and strengthen our relationships rather than criticize one another or put each other down.
Laughter
What would a relationship be without laughter? In a healthy relationship, laughter and fun should be shared regularly and each person should seek ways to make the other person happy.
Open Communication*
Communication is what allows us to connect, problem solve and discuss our needs in order to create and maintain healthy relationships.
Healthy Boundaries*
Boundaries are the expectations and limits we hold and are imperative to discuss in every relationship.
*Communication and boundaries are essential components of a healthy relationship but can often be challenging to navigate. Learn tools for communicating and for setting and maintaining healthy boundaries by visiting their respective pages.
Signs of an Unhealthy Relationship
The following are examples of being in an unhealthy relationship:
A healthy relationship is ALWAYS free from physical, emotional and sexual violence
If you in any way feel uncomfortable, afraid or powerless in a relationship, or if you are concerned that a friend is experiencing an unhealthy relationship, do not hesitate to connect or consult with campus resources. For more information about relationship violence and for resources to support you or a friend, visit sandiego.edu/care.
Campus Assault Resources and Education (C.A.R.E.) is University of San Diego’s primary effort to provide support, resources and education to the student community pertaining to sexual assault and relationship violence. CARE Advocates are confidential resources and are available for immediate assistance 24 hours a day, 7 days a week by calling the Student Wellness line at 619-260-4655 (press 1 for after hours support).
The Counseling Center is a confidential resource open Monday–Friday 8:30 a.m.–5 p.m., with extended hours until 6pm on Wednesday during fall and spring semesters. The easiest way to secure an initial consultation is by making a same- or next-day appointment via the Wellness Portal. Students can also call or come by the Counseling Center to arrange for an appointment.