As a teen or young adult, a romantic relationship can become one of the most sacred things to you. These partnerships can often be a clear representation of what one desires in another individual, expose them to the feeling of unconditional love, or quite honestly turn out to be their biggest mistake. Since most relationships are ever-changing it can be difficult to predict how each is going to progress. Throughout the course of a relationship, it is common (and normal!) for both partners to develop and change in terms of what they are comfortable with or ultimately want out of the relationship. This can become a challenge when one or both partners are struggling with enhanced emotions and the inability to cope with them.
An individual’s mental health can become quite a personal barrier when it comes to a romantic relationship, even though it may not seem like it from the surface. This does not necessarily mean that it is impossible for them to successfully hold a relationship. Rather, that they will have to focus more heavily on strong communication with their partner and develop a better sense of their own limitations. Below, I have compiled a list of a few tips for anyone who is fighting a double battle with a personal relationship and the possible barrier of their own mental health:
Talk to your partner!!
No matter the situation, it is proven the most important skill in a relationship is the ability to successfully communicate with your other half. This becomes especially important when one or both of you are struggling with a mental illness. Even though it may seem difficult or embarrassing it is necessary in order to be sure that both partners continue to be on the same page with each other. In the case you are having an especially difficult day, don’t keep it all bottled up until it consumes you. Tell your partner! If you and your significant other truly care for each other, they will be more than willing to listen to you spill your feelings and then try to give you some form of comfort and/or advice afterword. Another thing to remember is that honesty truly is the best policy whenever it comes to relationships. If you aren’t comfortable with something your partner is doing, it is important that you tell them as soon as possible. This will maintain a strong line of trust between each other and you will know that you can count on them for anything.
Learn to be open-minded
While being open-minded is an important skill to have in any relationship, it becomes even more important if you are dating someone who suffers from a mental illness. Depending on the condition, you may be unsure how to help or doing so will bring you a bit out of your comfort zone. It is important to first educate yourself and research some tips and tricks for the specific condition. If you choose to be open-minded throughout this process and are willing to go the extra steps it may take to make your partner more comfortable, it shows. It can make all the difference to a person suffering from mental illness if they know they have a strong support system behind them and someone who is willing to go above and beyond.
Avoid comparisons
When interacting with a significant other who suffers from a mental illness, it is imperative to avoid any form of comparison between sufferers. Remember, each mental illness is different and affects each sufferer uniquely. There is nothing people suffering from mental illness (myself included) hate more than being compared to another person’s condition. It can make us feel uncomfortable and embarrassed. Let’s say you have another friend that may suffer from depression as well. While this person’s symptoms may be triggered by one type of situation, it may take a totally separate event to trigger those of your significant other. This is why it is crucial to keep any thoughts you may have regarding this in your head. Instead, take some time to observe your partner’s unique symptoms and learn their triggers so that you can help them avoid future episodes as much as possible.
Keep your mind “healthy”
At the end of the day, you and your own well-being are the most important. And as much as it might be difficult to think about, you need to make sure that you are taking care of yourself before you concern yourself with the happiness and well-being of another person. In most situations, you can accommodate your own lifestyle to keep control of your mental health. But when it comes down to it, if being on your own is what you think is best then it’s best to do just that. Eventually, you may find that you are ready for a serious relationship or you may find that one special person who understands you and can help you keep your mind healthy.
As I stated earlier, each relationship is different and depending on the person, each’s needs and wants can vary across the board. It is important to keep an open mind, avoid generalizations, and make sure your partner is always aware that they can come to you with anything. Most of all, make sure you’re comfortable with how things are going between you two because it truly is the key to maintaining a healthy and happy mindset and avoiding any future threats to your health.
By: Sophia Sikowski, Anxiety In Teens Contributor