When relationships are brought up, it is firstly assumed to be a romantic relationship that is the topic of conversation. However, each and every individual is in at least one relationship that may be completely dissociated from romance.

“A continuous and often commitment to another individual” is the definition of a relationship, according to the standards of the Crime Victim Center.

On Wednesday at Villa Maria Academy, a representative of Crime Victim Center, Miss Bella, spoke to Theology classes to discuss what defines and how to define a healthy relationship.

Communication, honesty, open-mindedness, patience, and presence have been used to describe what composes an ideal relationship. Building healthy relationships has been described as the construction of an an actual building by Miss Bella.  Every building is constructed and designed in different ways. Yet they are still required to follow certain guidelines,

Mutual respect, freedom, and equality are the building blocks to developing a meaningful and lasting relationship. Each person is still a complete individual, even when in a relationship. Respect should be practiced to display that common understanding of individuality. Freedom should allow each member of a relationship to make free choices without fear of other members’ reactions. 

You have the right to decide when and if you want to be touched, your own time and who you want to spend it with, the treatment you deserve, and boundaries and expectations known to those around you. You have the right to end a relationship under any circumstances. Whether that mean the relationship is unhealthy or not.

Personal boundaries are the limits and rules that we set for ourselves and others within our relationships. Respectful boundaries are the cornerstone of equality, trust, and mutual respect. Every individual has a unique set of boundaries that should be established and discussed. 

“Think about the relationships in your life and self reflect on those relationships to develop standards and boundaries for within them”, urged Miss Bella.

“Who makes you feel safe? How do these people act towards me? Who has let me down?” Who has made me feel uncomfortable? Who makes me feel loved and how do they show it?”

“You are the most important person in your own life. I would even argue that people need to earn a spot in your life,” she concluded.

This can only be established through healthy communication. The true measure of health within a relationship is impacted through the communication during times of discrepancies between partners. 

If you have any questions or concerns regarding relationships with yourself and or others, do not hesitate to reach out to the Crime Victim Center at Cvcerie.org or at (814)-455-941. If you are in a situation where you find yourself or someone else impacting of safety of yourself, themselves, or others, it is highly advised to reach out to a crisis line at (800)-273-8255 for immediate assistance.