Relationship

Some communication games for couples to grow closer

Maintain effective communication

Two truths and a lie

Looking for communication games to get to know your partner better?

To play two truths and a lie, your partner and you will take turns sharing one false and two things that are true about you. The other needs to guess which is a lie. Communication games are a great opportunity to learn more about each other.

Answer the famous 36 questions

Perhaps you want a couples question game?

The famous 36 questions were created in a study exploring how intimacy is built. Communication is the key component of it since we grow fond of each other when we share. As you move through the questions, they become more personal and profound. Take turns, answering them, and observe how your understanding grows with each one.

The game of truth

If you need simple yet effective communication games for couples, try the game of truth. All you need to do is ask your partner questions and answer his/her questions honestly. You can play with the topics of the game going from light (such as favorites movie, book, childhood crush) to more heavy (such as fears, hopes, and dreams). Some questions to consider:

What’s your biggest fear?

If you had a magic wand, what would you use it for?

What is your favorite childhood memory?

What book had a transformational power for you?

What would you improve in our communication?

The 7 breath-forehead connection

Communication games for couples can inspire you to be more in sync with your partner and pick up on non-verbal cues better.

To play this game, you need to lie down next to each other and gently put your foreheads together. While you look into each other’s eyes, stay in this position for at least 7 breaths or more. This game increases a sense of connection and non-verbal understanding.

This or that

If you need communication games to get to know your partner better, especially early in the relationship, here is a fun game. Simply ask for their preference between two choices. Don’t forget to ask why they chose something. Some questions to get you started:

TV or books?

Indoors or outdoors?

Save or spend?

Lust or love?

Forgotten Or Remembered For All The Wrong Reasons?

How well do you know me?

Some communication games meant for parties can be adapted for you two. To play this game, you need to think of different categories and questions (for example, favorite movie, best vacation, favorite color). Both partners will answer the questions for themselves (write on one piece of paper) and their loved ones (use a different piece).

The answers are compared in the end to see what correct answers about the other person you had. To make it more fun, have a wager who will guess more and household chores can be the currency.

To be continued…

Relationship

Tips on building and maintaining healthy relationships

BUILDING and maintaining healthy relationships is an important part of looking after our mental health. Here are six top tips to support you with yours.

1. Get to know yourself

Take the time to appreciate yourself and get in touch with your emotions to be able to express yourself clearly and more effectively. Not knowing how to regulate your emotions and express them healthily can negatively affect one’s mental wellbeing.

2. Put in the work

Healthy relationships are not found but built. A healthy relationship needs commitment and willingness to be accommodating to each other’s needs.

3. Set and respect boundaries

Setting boundaries is not only about what you do not want or like in your relationships, but also about letting the people around you know what you appreciate. Think about and let others know where your boundaries are; respecting your time alone for example.

Doing this can take the pressure off your relationship to commit to anything unrealistic.

4. Talk and Listen

All relationships have disagreements and that is okay. What matters is how you talk and listen to one another. Listen to understand, rather than listening to respond. Do not be afraid to express your emotions or vulnerabilities with people you trust.

5. Let go of control

A lot of life is about how we react to our experiences and encounters. Knowing that you can only really control what you do and not what anyone else does will save you time and stress.

6. Reflect and learn

If you have a healthy way of expressing your feelings, you are able to react to other people’s in a healthy way. Being angry with someone often comes from a place of feeling hurt and upset. If you can recognise that, you can communicate it, and build better relationships with others.

Reflect on the relationships that work best in your life, what qualities do these relationships have, and how can you bring these qualities into other relationships?

Relationship

Love in the dark: Understanding depression’s effect on marriage and relationships

The senior woman holds her chest and talks to the nurse to describe the pain she has been having.

As we manoeuvre the complexities of relationships and marriages, it is essential to acknowledge the significant role mental health plays in our overall well-being.

Unfortunately, mental health is often shrouded in misconceptions that can have far-reaching consequences on our relationships.

In this article, we will explore five common misconceptions about mental illness and how they can affect our relationships and marriages.

Misconception 1: People with

mental illness are violent and

dangerous

One of the most pervasive misconceptions about mental illness is that people who suffer from it are violent and dangerous. This could not be further from the truth. Research has shown that individuals with mental illness are more likely to be victims of violence than perpetrators.

In fact, studies have found that people with mental illness are two to three times more likely to be victims of violent crime than the general population.

In relationships and marriages, this misconception can lead to fear and mistrust. Partners may worry that their loved one’s mental health condition will lead to violent outbursts or unpredictable behaviour. However, with proper treatment and support, individuals with mental illness can lead healthy, productive lives.

Misconception 2: Having a mental

illness means you are “crazy”

Another common misconception is that having a mental illness means someone is “crazy” or unstable. This stigma can prevent individuals from seeking help and can lead to feelings of shame and guilt.

In relationships, this misconception can create tension and conflict. Partners may not understand their loved one’s mental health condition, leading to frustration and resentment. However, by educating ourselves about mental health and seeking support, we can work to break down this stigma and build stronger, more supportive relationships.

Misconception 3: Post-Traumatic

Stress Disorder (PTSD) only

affects military personnel

PTSD is often associated with military personnel, but the reality is that anyone can develop PTSD after experiencing a traumatic event. This can include survivors of natural disasters, domestic abuse, or sexual assault.

PTSD can have a significant impact on relationships and marriages. Partners may struggle to understand their loved one’s symptoms, leading to feelings of frustration and helplessness. However, by seeking support and education, couples can work together to build a stronger, more supportive relationship.

Misconception 4: Mental Health

conditions are rare

Mental health conditions are more common than we think. According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), one in four people worldwide will experience a mental or neurological disorder at some point in their lives.

In relationships and marriages, mental health conditions can affect anyone. Partners may struggle to cope with their loved one’s mental health condition, leading to feelings of burnout and resentment. However, by seeking support and education, couples can work together to build a stronger, more supportive relationship.

Misconception 5: Seeking help

for mental illness leads to stigma

Finally, many people believe that seeking help for mental illness will lead to stigma and judgment from others. However, seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Seeking help for mental illness can actually strengthen the relationship. By working together to address mental health concerns, couples can build a stronger, more supportive relationship.

The importance of education and

support

Education and support are key to breaking down the stigma surrounding mental health. By learning about mental health conditions and seeking support, couples can build stronger, more supportive relationships.

Communication is essential for the relationship’s health. Partners should feel comfortable discussing their mental health concerns and seek support from each other. By doing so, couples can work together to build a stronger, more resilient relationship.

In conclusion, mental health myths can have a significant impact on relationships and marriages. By educating ourselves about mental health and seeking support, we can work to break down these misconceptions and build stronger relationships.

If you are struggling with mental health concerns or know someone who is, do not hesitate to seek help. With the right support and education, couples can build a stronger, more resilient relationship that can withstand the challenges of mental health concerns.

To be continued …