Relationships are a part of your social network that provide emotional and physical support. Different types of relationships make up a large part of your life, from intimate friends and family to professional connections. These relationships are crucial to your mental health and can also offer many benefits, including opportunities for personal growth.
Understanding the different types of relationships is an important aspect of your social support system. You might find it helpful to break down your relationships into four categories:
Family relationships — two or more people related by blood, marriage or adoption living together in a loving household. These relationships are typically based on mutual trust, affection and commitment. Family relationships can vary across cultures and throughout the life cycle.
Romantic relationship — a sexual or romantic partnership between two people, often involving emotional intimacy and some level of commitment. These relationships can be monogamous or non-monogamous. The term “romantic relationship” can be confusing because it is often used to describe informal relationships such as dating or cohabitation, as well as formal arrangements such as a marriage or civil union.
Intimate relationships can be a great way to enhance your wellbeing. They can give you a chance to explore new aspects of your personality, and help you to learn about your partner’s. If you’re a more introverted person, for example, they can encourage you to venture out more. They can also serve as a sounding board for your feelings, and help you decompress after a hard day. They can also be a good reminder to take care of yourself, by scheduling time for couple activities and taking regular breaks from your work.