It can be exciting and fun to start a relationship, but it can also feel confusing at times. There are lots of different ways people date – some prefer hanging out in person, while others may communicate more online. Whatever your style, a healthy relationship is built on respect, trust, and communication. 

In a healthy relationship, you should feel comfortable being yourself and know that the other person respects you. Some signs of a healthy relationship include: 

  • Respect: You both value each other’s opinions and feelings. 

  • Trust: You feel safe sharing your thoughts and feelings, and you trust the other person. 

  • Communication: You can talk openly about things that matter to you, and you listen to each other. 

  • Boundaries: You both understand and respect each other’s boundaries, whether that’s about physical touch, time apart, or personal space. 

If you ever feel disrespected, pressured, or unsafe in a relationship, it’s important to speak up and set boundaries. Signs of an unhealthy relationship might include:

  • Controlling behaviour: If the other person tries to control who you talk to, where you go, or what you wear. 

  • Jealousy: Extreme jealousy or possessiveness can be part of an unhealthy relationship. 

  • Lack of respect: If they make fun of you, put you down, or ignore your feelings. 

  • Pressure: If they push you to do things you’re not comfortable with, like having sex or sharing personal information. 

Breakups can be really hard, whether you’re the one ending the relationship or the one being broken up with. It’s normal to feel sad, angry, confused, or even relieved after a breakup. Every relationship is different, and breakups can take time to get over, but here are some ways to cope.

  • Give yourself time: It’s okay to feel upset and take time to process your emotions. 

  • Talk to someone you trust: Sharing your feelings with a close friend, family member, or even your school nurse can help you work through what’s going on. 

  • Stay active: Doing things you enjoy, like hobbies or sports, can help take your mind off the breakup and make you feel better. 

  • Avoid blaming yourself: Relationships don’t always work out, and that’s okay. It doesn’t mean you’ve done anything wrong. 

If you’re the one ending the relationship, it’s important to be respectful and honest.

  • Be clear and kind: Let the other person know how you feel, but avoid being hurtful or cruel. 

  • Choose a private setting: Have the conversation in person or over a call, rather than through text or social media, so you can both express yourselves properly. ​​​​​​​

  • Give them space: Understand that they might need time to process the breakup, so respect their need for space afterward.