On this page
- How our relationships affect our mental health
- Why supportive relationships make getting help easier
- What does a healthy relationship look like?
- How to build and keep healthy relationships
- 8 essential relationship skills
- Practise your communication skills: practical activities to try
- How to overcome new connection nerves
How our relationships affect our mental health
Strong relationships don’t just make life happier – they lift mood, lower stress, boost immunity, and can increase your chances of living longer by up to 50%.
Whatever kind of relationship we’re talking about – romantic, family, friendships, work colleagues, or any other human bond – supportive relationships help you feel connected, valued and safe.
Strong relationships also build strong communities. When people feel connected, communities become safer, healthier and better able to face challenges together.
Some people face extra barriers to feeling connected. Young people, LGBTIQ+ communities, First Nations peoples and people under financial pressure can experience more loneliness because of stigma, discrimination or stress.
Living with a mental health condition can also make relationships feel harder. Many people face relationship strain or breakdowns, which can make recovery harder.
Why supportive relationships make getting help easier
Many people turn to someone they trust before they contact a service or health professional.
When someone close notices change, checks in or encourages you to seek support, getting help can feel less overwhelming. In this way, your relationships often act as your first support system.
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What does a healthy relationship look like?
Healthy relationships are built on respect, trust, communication and boundaries. They help you feel stronger and more grounded, not smaller or more stressed.
