7 tips from a psychologist to keep a healthy relationship

Romantic relationships, even the most promising ones, can encounter obstacles. These moments of tension, sometimes inevitable, do not necessarily mean the end, but call for adjustments.

If you want to keep your relationship healthy and harmonious, working on yourself is a key step. Here are seven strategies recommended by Caitlin Cantor, psychotherapist and sex therapist interviewed by PsychologyToday to transform your interactions and preserve your emotional well-being.

1. Calm your reactions

When your partner says or does something that hurts you, avoid reacting immediately. Take a break, take a deep breath, and think about your emotions before responding.

A calm response opens the way to constructive dialogue rather than pointless arguments.

2. Seek to understand before judging

Rather than interpreting your partner’s actions or words, ask questions to clarify their intentions.

Often our frustrations come from misunderstandings that could be avoided by communicating directly.

3. Be intentional in your interactions

Before talking about your feelings, prepare what you want to say and how you want to word it. Avoid accumulated criticism that risks confusing the main message.

Opt for sharing that is clear and focused on your emotions.

4. Learn to self-soothe

Managing your emotions is essential to defusing conflicts. When you’re overwhelmed, take the time to refocus, whether it’s through a walk or a breathing technique.

A calm mind promotes more serene exchanges.

5. Practice empathy

Try to put yourself in your partner’s shoes before passing judgment.

Empathy creates a space for mutual understanding and strengthens emotional bonds.

6. Take responsibility for your part

In every interaction, there is a shared dynamic. Rather than looking for blame, think about what you can change in your attitude to improve the situation.

7. Set clear boundaries

Establishing boundaries in a relationship is not a sign of distance, but of mutual respect.

Know how to express what is acceptable to you and the consequences in the event of non-compliance.