Wellness Education
A department of Wellness USF

Healthy Relationships

Your relationships affect your wellness. In fact, research shows if you have a social support system, you are more mentally and physically healthy. Furthermore, you are better able to deal with stress.

The key is choosing who we will have relationships with and how we will act and reacat in those relationships. Most healthy relationships have similar characteristics of:

  1. Mutual respect
  2. Clear communication
  3. Even compromise
  4. Trust

Successful relationships take time and effort. Whether you are building new ones or maintaining old ones, the key is to be yourself and communicate your expectations. The good news is that you always have an opportunity to create new and healthy relationships. You may find people in your classes, residence hall, or at a social event with whom you have a great deal in common. And where there is difference, there is a chance to expand your worldview.

Check out the Marshall Student Center. It is the hub for many student-focused organizations. You can also join a fitness group or intramural team at the Campus Recreation Center. If you live on campus, your RA can suggest lots of ways to get involved. The Counseling Center also offers free workshops on creating healthy relationships.