www.coolsexinfo.org.uk

www.ifpa.ie

www.lovelife.uk.com

www.youthhealthinfo.com

Relationships

Relationships can be great, but can be hard work too! Some relationships can be good for us but others can be totally destructive. Some people are game players, want to control or just want to use us and give nothing back. Some resort to manipulation, intimidation or even force just to get what they want.

In a good relationship
You should feel:
• Positive & comfortable about yourself.
• Confident & loved, wanted, needed and useful.

• Having a happy positive relationship is good for your mental health, this goes for all relationships like with your parents, family, friends & boy / girlfriends.

In a bad relationship
You could be left feeling:
• Confused! Loving & hating the person at the same time.
• Angry with yourself or them.
• Trapped.
• Depressed & worthless.

These kind of feelings can bring you down and affect you mental health, that's why it's so important to choose your friends wisely. Negative feelings can impact on you and affect your future relationships. If you are in a relationship that is abusive, be that emotionally, physically or sexually, it's time to sort it out - or get out. There's no point staying in a relationship just for the sake of it, communicate how you really feel, if your needs aren't being met, stop fooling yourself, it's time to move on.

Tips for better communication
• Try to listen to the other person's point of view even if you don't agree.
Keep your cool

• Be respectful (even if the other person is not). Don't resort to cursing, shouting or put-downs.

• Try to let the other person finish before you have your say.

• Make your point as clearly as you can.

• Choose a good time to discuss touchy subjects.

• Be as open and honest as you can.

• Be reasonable. Ask for what you want but accept that sometimes it is not possible or practical. Communicating well means telling each other what you think - the good and the not so good.

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