What does a healthy relationship feel like?

The other person respects who you are, even when they disagree.

• Accepts your opinions even when they differ from theirs.
• Doesn't ridicule you, in private or in front of others.
• Respects your physical and emotional limits.
• Doesn't pressure you to change how you look, think, or feel.

You can talk about what bothers you without it turning into a fight or punishment.

• Listens without interrupting or invalidating what you feel.
• You can disagree without shouting, insults, or threats.
• Apologizes when wrong — and changes the behavior.
• Doesn't use silence as punishment.

Doesn't need to control you to feel safe.

• Doesn't check your phone, social media, or messages.
• Doesn't ask for passwords or access to your accounts.
• Trusts you when you go out with friends or family.
• Doesn't accuse you of things you didn't do.

Each person keeps their own life within the relationship.

• You have time and space for yourself, without guilt.
• You can see your friends and family freely.
• You make your own decisions about your body, money, and time.
• You don't need permission for basic things.

Celebrates your wins and is there in the hard moments.

• Celebrates your successes without competing or minimizing them.
• Supports your goals, studies, or work.
• Is present when you need it — without making you feel you owe something.
• Doesn't use your vulnerabilities against you.

Decisions are made between both people, not imposed by one.

• You share responsibilities fairly.
• Neither of you always has the final word.
• Money isn't used as a tool of power.
• Both can say no — and that's respected.