Romantic relationships are a big part of many peoples' lives, and if handled correctly, can be very satisfying. Sadly, not all romantic relationships are happy relationships. Here are some components that make for a healthy romantic relationship: What Makes A Healthy Relationship? Trust. A little jealousy is normal, but you should always be able to fully trust in one another. Communication. As a couple, you should be able to openly discuss and feel comfortable talking about any topic, such as STD testing. Honesty. Being honest is important, if you already know you can communicate, then be open about our opinions and concerns Respect. You must respect your partner and expect the same in return, everyone has different opinions and each should be considered equally important. Individuality. Be yourself, there will be times you need to compromise but do not lose yourself in the process and do not expect your partner to either. You are great together because you are different! Part of every serious romantic relationship is sexual activity, and it is important to know how you feel about the issue. Some things to discuss with your partner before engaging in sexual activity are: Sex. Get consent, each partner has to agree with a verbal yes to be okay. If you don't want it, then you need to let your partner know so that you won't be in a situation you later regret. Protection. Talk about what you want, honestly. It might be awkward discussing protection before hand, but the benefits of using protection will go a long way in avoiding pregnancy, contraction of STDs, and an unhappy relationship. Wants and Needs. You will not always know what each other wants or respond to their hints, so speak up. Clarify any mixed messages and make sure both of you are getting what you want. And be willing to compromise if one partner is uncomfortable with a certain situation. A couple key points to remember about sexual activity are: Sex is something you do when your ready, something that can be stopped at any time, and something that is safe because you are prepared. Sex is not, however, a way to prove your love, something that is pressured or forced, or something to do because your friends are doing it. Romantic relationships are often accompanied with love, and "Love is patient; love is kind; love is not envious or boastful or arrogant or rude...It bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. Love never ends." (NRSV, 1 Corinthians 13:4-8) If you need help defining your romantic relationship, or have doubts about how healthy it is, some people you might try talking to are: your pastor, family members, trusted adults or friends, your RA, or even the counselor at the campus counseling office. If, however, you find out that your current romantic relationship isn't healthy, but is abusive, some places you can go for help are: your pastor, a trusted adult, family, friends, campus counseling office, RA, police, hospital, or the Rape and Abuse Crisis Center of Fargo/Moorhead. Ultimately, do not suffer alone in your relationship. If you have any doubts about the healthiness of it, seek help. Sponsored by the Rape and Abuse Crisis Center of Fargo-Moorhead Crisis Phone: 701-293-7273 Fax: 701-293-9424 Email: crisis@raccfm.com

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