Relationships

Relationships

Having happy positive relationships is good for your mental health, this goes for all relationships like those with your parents, family, friends, boy/girlfriends or partners.

When a relationship is going well it can be the best feeling in the world. When it’s not going so good, there are feelings of hurt, sadness, anger, rejection and isolation.

If you find yourself in a relationship that is abusive, be that emotionally, physically or sexually, it’s time to get out. You may be fearful of ending a relationship, afraid that you will be lonely or that you will miss that person. It is normal to remember all the good times, but don’t forget about the bad times – focus on these and remember the times you felt really bad or afraid – this will help you to leave the relationship. You deserve to be treated well and with respect.

If you’re LGBTI+, then relationship issues may be more complicated because this may also involve the issue of coming out to friends and family. At a time when emotions and hormones are confused anyway, this is a real challenge. But remember there are many other people out there just like you. You are not alone.

If you are getting involved sexually, then it makes sense to know about the risks and do something about them. Remember, the age of consent in Ireland is 17. Find out about contraception and how to protect yourself against sexually transmitted infections.