9 Ways Relationships Can Provide Comfort & Support
Being single can certainly have its advantages, but the benefits of being in a relationship are also wonderfully fulfilling and can enhance your life in many ways.
My fiancé and I have been together for over six years now, and those years have been the best of my life.
In a relationship, you have a partner, a confidant, and a best friend.
It’s not always been sunshine and rainbows.
Every couple has their fair share of lovers’ quarrels, but a little spat is just that.
You still have someone who loves you and whom you love with your whole heart.
Life is shared with someone who knows you better than anyone else, sometimes even better than you know yourself.
You have someone to lean on, and as Bill Withers knows, we all need that.
I could go on forever about all the wonderful things that come with falling in love, but there are actual benefits of being in a relationship.
Being in a committed relationship actually has proven benefits—like from studies and stuff.
And if you ask me, these benefits are way better than chocolate and roses.
Keep reading to discover the biggest benefits of being in a relationship!
1. Emotional Security
Do you often yearn for a fulfilling relationship where you each support each other deeply and care for each other infinitely?
You’re not alone.
Emotional security is desired by many of us.
It’s because this bond brings us great comfort.
A 2021 study published in the journal PLOS ONE found that people in satisfying romantic relationships reported feeling more supported by their partners.
This sense of support was linked to better emotional well-being and lower levels of psychological distress. In other words, being in a loving, supportive relationship can be really good for your mental health.
2. Shared Memories
Ever feel like when you do things on your own, they seem bland?
Well, when you’re in a relationship, the most mundane things become memorable just by being with your significant other.
Sharing memories with your partner is one of the best parts of being in a relationship.
When you’re out with friends or going through some hard times, there’s no remedy like remembering all the inspiring moments you’ve experienced together.
In fact, new research shows that long-term couples can even develop interconnected memories.
The British Psychological Society, which conducted the study, found that couples who shared stories together rather than individually led to collaborative remembering of events.
Not only that, but people painted the situation differently for their partner, including new information.
This means your partner really is your other half!
So it’s not just a mushy saying; it’s one of the real benefits of being in a relationship!
3. Reduced Stress
One of the biggest hurdles for couples is the stress that a new relationship brings.
When you’re in a committed relationship for a long time, stress levels can be significantly reduced.
Benjamin Karney, Ph.D., a professor of social psychology at UCLA, likes to think of stress as a sort of test for relationships.
According to him, passing this test “may well have lasting positive benefits for couples in terms of increased self-efficacy, trust and confidence that the relationship can weather new challenges in the future.”
When couples are satisfied with their relationship, they are in a better position to provide support and care for each other.
4. Longevity
Did you know that being in a healthy, committed relationship can extend your lifespan?
In a study published in PLoS Medicine, Brigham Young University professors Julianne Holt-Lunstad and Timothy Smith found that having adequate social connections can increase our longevity by 50%.
Let’s put it in perspective: Having little social interaction is harmful, but just how harmful?
The study found that being isolated from others is:
- Twice as harmful as being obese
- Equivalent to alcoholism in severity
- Equivalent to smoking 15 cigarettes a day
- More harmful to your body than a lack of exercise
Need we say more?
You need your partner, and they need you.
You’ll both be around for a long time to enjoy each other’s company.
5. Improved Health
Ever notice that you pick up habits that your partner does, and they do the same?
This can be a great thing, especially if you choose a conscientious significant other.
If your partner’s health choices are poor, however, don’t fret.
You can still be a positive role model.
With time, they’ll pick up on your good habits.
Being motivated and positively influenced by one another is another great benefit of being in a relationship.
6. Reduced Risk of STDs
When you commit yourself to one partner, you reduce the risk of contracting a sexually transmitted disease.
This should be a no-brainer, but it’s definitely a plus, especially if you’ve both been tested and cleared.
7. Being Yourself
One of the best benefits of being in a relationship is that you can be yourself around your partner.
All the awkward first dates and what-ifs are out of the question now.
You can be as goofy as you like.
Amy Brunell, a psychology professor at Ohio State University Newark, says, “If you’re true to yourself, it is easier to act in ways that build intimacy in relationships, and that’s going to make your relationship more fulfilling.”
8. Happiness
Do we even have to say it?
Just being in a relationship makes people happy.
Whenever you look at the face of the person you love deeply and passionately, certain areas of the brain are stimulated.
There have been many studies on this.
One such study by PBS found people are happier when they’re with others rather than being alone.
Also, this happiness is contagious and lasting.
9. Spending the Rest of Your Lives Together
Should you ever decide to get engaged to your one and only, prepare yourself for a lifetime of significant memories and moments.
There’s no better feeling than waking up every morning next to the one you love, and that’s a fact.
What are your favorite benefits of being in a relationship?
The nine benefits outlined above are some of the most obvious pros of being in a committed relationship, but there are undoubtedly many others.
If having these things in your life sounds appealing, then please open your heart to the process of looking for a perfect partner.
It may be a long and sometimes difficult road, but the benefits far outweigh the setbacks, so don’t ever give up on finding your match!
What do you love most about being in a relationship?
What would you add to this list?
Tell us in the comment section!
