Everyone deserves a healthy relationship

National Women’s Health Week (May 8 to 14) is the perfect time to assess your overall wellness. Most women know about the basics of good health — eating right, getting exercise, and having regular health screenings. But your closest relationships can also play a big part in your health. 

"Studies show that healthy relationships can be a boost to your immune system, mood, and overall physical health," says Brigid McCaw, MD, medical director of our Northern California Family Violence Prevention Program.

Watch a video about domestic violence to learn about available resources and hear women talk about their experiences.
 

Some signs of a healthy relationship include the following:

• mutual respect and support
• feeling valued
• open communication about problems
• sharing thoughts and feelings

While all relationships have ups and downs, constant turmoil in yours can take a toll on your health. "The stress of a difficult relationship can cause physical symptoms such as headaches, stomach aches, or sleeplessness," says Dr. McCaw. Consider talking to a behavioral health professional and learn the keys to communication in relationships.

Sometimes, an unhealthy relationship may involve more than just poor communication or stress. If your relationship features one or more of the following situations, you may be in an abusive relationship:

• hitting, shoving, kicking, or other physical violence
• excessive criticism, name calling, put downs, or threats
• control of where a person goes or whom he or she sees or talks with

Help is available: Your not alone. Talk with your doctor if you believe a relationship in your life is affecting your health. If you're worried you may be in an abusive relationship, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline for 24-hour support at 1-800-799-SAFE (1-800-799-7233) or 1-800-787-3224 (TTY for the deaf, hard of hearing, or speech impaired).

Get more help and information.

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