The Truth about Healthy and Unhealthy Relationships
Relationships are an important part of our life. Our first is with our parents/caregivers.
The way in which this relationship is cultivated impacts the development of future
relationships. While in college, we begin developing relationships with a number of
people: classmates, professors, counselors, etc., each with varying levels of intimacy and
dedication. Healthy relationships provide us with connection and support and shape us as
people. But sometimes relationships are unhealthy and are stressful and difficult to
manage. The reality is that relationships are complicated but they do not have to be
unhappy, energy-draining parts of life, especially when working on reaching your
academic dreams.
Here are some key elements of a healthy relationship:









Mutual RESPECT
TRUST (it’s a biggie and takes time to establish)
Mutual Support
Honesty
A mutual agreement that violence (verbal, mental/emotional,
physical) is unacceptable
Open and clear communication
Pleasure in each other’s company
Interest in each other’s hobbies, passions, life
Willingness to work together to improve the relationship
Support is essential to succeeding in school. In addition to being a student, you might
also have several roles, such as parent, spouse, daughter or son, each demanding your
attention. School itself is stressful, and when faced with everyday life it can be even
harder to manage. Being part of a relationship that saps your energy with hostile jokes,
mocking or belittling words, jealousy, verbal, physical or mental abuse is not conducive
to doing well in school. In some respects, a relationship is like a team; if the team
members are happy, the team functions well together and independently. If you think
you are part of an unhealthy relationship and need to talk to someone about it, stop by
Student Services at the Damon City Campus or the Counseling Center at the Brighton
Campus and ask to speak to a counselor. MCC counselors can provide support, help with
exploring options, and recommend community resources, when needed.
Vivian Quimbaya-Winship