In a time when the pace of life is accelerating and feelings of loneliness are increasing despite constant connection, human relationships remain a fundamental element in the equation of public health and human well-being. This is where the concept of “healing relationships” comes to the fore, a term referring to human connections that not only give us the warmth of emotional sharing but also actively contribute to psychological and physical recovery and improvement.
What are Healing Relationships?
Healing relationships are defined as those that help a person regain a sense of safety and trust after traumatic experiences, whether they are emotional traumas, previous abusive relationships, or long periods of isolation. In this type of relationship, healing is not based on one party “rescuing” the other, but on balanced presence, listening, and mutual respect.
Therefore, a healing relationship allows an individual to be seen and heard without facing judgment from others, and to experience human closeness without fear of rejection or depletion. Over time, this experience contributes to reshaping trust, which is reflected in mental health, emotional stability, and consequently, physical health.
But what are the conditions for healthy relationships that can contribute to your recovery, physically and mentally, so that we can call them “healing relationships”?
Essential Components of a Healing Relationship
Some relationships that drain our energy and expose us to psychological pressures can consequently cause us physical illnesses as well. In contrast, relationships built on love and support, whether among family members, friends, or colleagues, boost the immune system and delay illness and death, according to studies. Research has shown that social support and a sense of belonging reduce stress and heart disease and improve quality of life.
The feelings of trust, honesty, and empathy are considered the three fundamental elements of healing relationships:
1- Trust: When you feel psychologically and physically safe with the other person, and when you find that you do not have to be cautious about being harmed by the other party.
2- Honesty: When you can say, “The other person and I can express our true feelings without either of us harming the other as a result.”
3- Empathy: When you and the other person have the ability and desire to understand each other and express mutual kindness.
Relationships and Social Support: Why Do We Need Others?
Because we do not live a sound life without relationships, “social support” is considered a fundamental element in mental and physical health. Scientific research has found that having people to rely on in times of distress reduces the feeling of pressure and enhances the ability to cope with crises, whether psychological or health-related.
Furthermore, social support is not limited to offering advice or practical help; it includes the feeling that someone cares and shares the same human experience with you, and often this alone is enough.
This feeling reduces the sense of loneliness, which – according to health reports – is a silent risk factor that negatively affects the heart, immunity, and mental health.
Friendship is a Necessity, Not a Luxury
The impact of supportive relationships is not limited to immediately enhancing mental and physical health; it is also evident that strong friendships are linked to improved long-term general health.
People who have stable social relationships are less prone to depression, more capable of dealing with daily pressures, and tend to adopt healthier habits throughout their lives.
Friendship gives a person a sense of belonging and a feeling of having a purpose in life, two elements essential for psychological balance. Also, having supportive friends helps overcome difficult stages such as illness, job loss, or major
