Relationships Contribute to Wellness

We’ve heard many times that a great relationship can make someone healthier and happier (and often, those two things are tied). But what if you aren’t in a good relationship now? What if your current relationship is causing you stress? Or perhaps your partner simply isn’t supporting the healthy lifestyle choices you’re trying to make?

Here are some steps you can take:

Talk to Your Partner First
If your partner isn’t being supportive, ask them why. Perhaps they didn’t realize you were serious about wanting to lose weight or take better control over your diabetes. After all, when we’re in a relationship, we hear our partner say a lot of things. So maybe he or she thought you just weren’t serious.

Discuss Your Goals With Your Partner
If your loved one knows exactly what you are trying to accomplish in your life, it will be easier for him or her to support your goals. So be specific. Rather than saying you’d like your partner to “help you lose weight,” instead tell them “I’d like you to take a walk around the block with me after work.” Or, “I’d like you buy more fresh vegetables to snack on rather than junk food.” Let them know what they can do to help.

Get a Third Party Involved
If your partner tries to undermine your progress, perhaps some kind of third party can get involved to help. A trusted friend, pastor, or even therapist may assist with communication. Who knows, perhaps your partner feels bad about his or her own health and that’s why they are hesitant in helping you. Regardless of the issue, it’s important to talk it out so it doesn’t cause a strain on the relationship.

Image: sxc.hu.