We all have relationships with a variety of people, including friends, boyfriends, girlfriends, parents, teachers, and mentors. When these relationships are healthy, they are based on respect, honesty, trust, and good communication. We feel safe, supported, happy, and good about ourselves.
Sometimes, though, our relationships can be unhealthy. Unhealthy relationships cause us hurt and pain. Sometimes they even make us question ourselves and make us feel unsafe, either emotionally or physically.
Identifying and distancing ourselves from unhealthy relationships is an act of self-love.
For more information on navigating healthy and healthy relationships:
Honoring & Respecting Yourself within the Circle of Community
- Indigenous Youth: Heritage as Healing
- Getting into a Relationship
- How to Make Friends at School
- Getting Along with Family
- Four Values, One Spirit
- Self Care, Self Love
- Blessing Manifesting Blog
Staying Safe in Relationships
- Is Your Relationship Past its Use-by Date?
- Warning Signs of an Abusive Relationship
- Domestic or Dating Violence
- What is Gaslighting?
Getting Help
Are you or a friend feeling unsafe in a relationship? If so, speak with a trusted Elder, family member, or community member such as a teacher, doctor, nurse, or counselor. You also can contact the following to get help:
- Crisistextline.org – by text
- StrongHearts Native Helpline -1-844-7NATIVE (762-8483), you can connect anonymously with a Native advocate
- Loveisrespect.org teen dating abuse helpline – by text, live chat, or by calling 866-331-9474
- The National Sexual Assault Hotline – by live chat or by calling 800-656-HOPE (800-656-4673)
- The National Domestic Violence Hotline – by live chat or by calling 800-799-SAFE (800-799-7233)
- Childhelp National Child Abuse Hotline – by calling 800-4-A-CHILD (800-422-4663)
