Counseling and Psychological Services

Healthy Relationships

University life presents itself with great opportunity to explore, discover and build relationships with others. This can take many forms including relationships with friends, roommates, faculty, casual/committed dating, and sexual relationships. This time in your life may also have you facing significant transitions in your existing relationships. You may have encountered loss or a change in a relationship with a loved one, parent, friend or significant other since coming to the university.  Though all of these relationship types can vary, there are common characteristics of healthy relationships.
 
Every relationship consists of two (or more) people and at the core of any healthy relationship are 3 factors; Trust, Communication and Respect. All healthy relationships are comprised of an ability to communicate in an open, honest and safe way where all parties involved can feel heard, validated and respected. It is important to communicate your needs to others and also to really listen to the needs of those involved in the relationship.
 
Relationship quality can greatly influence one’s university experience. It can provide great comfort and support but can also be stressful, overwhelming and all consuming. Relationship stress can also impact other areas of one’s life. It is important to check in with yourself and acknowledge how your current relationships are influencing you. Healthy relationships involve a healthy balance of nurturing oneself and reciprocation of effort, respect and respectful communication. It is important to set boundaries that allow for independence and self-sufficiency in addition to physical, sexual, emotional or digital boundary setting taking place between members of the relationship.
 
You (or someone you know) may want to consider talking to a professional if…

1. You find yourself overly consumed by your relationships ( i.e. excess time or energy)
2. You find yourself struggling to understand your limits or how to set boundaries
3. You have concerns about how you relate and connect with others
4. You feel lonely, hopeless or isolated.
5. You have questions or concerns about your sexual behavior, sexuality or sex life.
6. You seek support in understanding how sex impacts your feelings and relationships with others
7. Your experiences in relationships are greatly impacting other areas of your life ( i.e. academics, enrichment activities, health or even other relationships)

Speaking with a professional can help you explore the issues you are facing and come up with healthy and safe solutions to move forward.
 
These are just a few of the reasons someone may seek out counseling due to concerns about relationships, sex or sexuality. Overall, trust yourself and when in doubt seek help. No call is illegitimate and CAPS would love to hear from you!

Getting Help:

Are you uncertain if your relationship is healthy? Have questions about your relationship, sexuality or sex in general? Feeling overwhelmed trying to navigate your social life at Wesleyan and meet new people? Call CAPS and set up an appointment to speak with a counselor. We are happy to help and support you! Please call us today at 860-685-2910.

If you are concerned for your safety or the safety of others, please call 911 or public safety at 860-685-3333.