In this world of technology and immediate communication options, the personal touch can get “lost in the shuffle” and our relationships with our friends and family may suffer. Here are some tips on how to nurture those relationships and keep them healthy and beneficial.
Often we are faced with a multitude of demands on our time, and sometimes our interpersonal interactions may get put on hold or even forgotten. It is easy to fall out of touch with friends or loved ones unless we make an effort to keep it going.
Sending a text may be quick and efficient, but nothing compares to visiting in person. This may be a family gathering, a backyard barbecue, or simply a chat over coffee. Dedicating time to get together gives the others the sense that the relationship is important to you.
Building a healthy relationship takes effort. Make sure that you balance your interests with the interests of others. If there are problems or disagreements, address them early, and try to resolve any conflicts before they become too difficult.
Be ready to refuse requests on your time that you cannot handle, or ask for help when needed. While it important to be available to others, it is also important that you don’t take on too much. Stand up for yourself and stay true to your beliefs and opinions. If you find that you have frequent difficulty getting along with others and would like to improve your effectiveness in relationships, consider learning more about Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT). DBT is an intensive Cognitive-Behavioral treatment which combines individual therapy with skills training. There are many self-help books and workbooks that use DBT concepts that can be very helpful in improving the quality of your relationships.
Michelle Wrona
Ecker Center for Mental Health
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