What does a healthy relationship look like to Aggies?
Valentine’s Day is right around the corner, so we asked students at Utah State University what a healthy relationship looks like to them.
Asa Finch is a second-year student.
“To me, a healthy relationship is open to communication and boundaries,” Finch said. “Any relationship is a no-go for me if me and my partner can’t set good boundaries with each other as needed. I like a relationship that is secure when we are apart. And it’s important to me that we are not anxious or avoidant of the other but able to function as a couple independently and together.”
Andrew Greer is a second-year student.
“I think a healthy relationship is between individuals who are able to effectively and safely communicate their feelings, wants and needs with each other,” Greer said. “Also to have respect for each other and understand each other, to uplift and inspire one another and create a safe and happy environment.”
Ivy Warde is a first-year student.
“I believe that a healthy relationship is centered on common beliefs and goals, or at least similar ones,” Warde said. “For me, that is God and getting sealed in the temple. A healthy relationship will not only help you achieve your goals but will help you when you fall a bit. A healthy relationship should help you feel more free and make anywhere you are together feel like home. It doesn’t matter if it’s a friend, a parent or a significant other. If it’s a healthy relationship, you should feel confident that even if you have difficult times or conversations that that relationship will still be there for you, even if you don’t agree perfectly on everything.”
If a student believes they or someone they know is in an unhealthy relationship, USU has resources to help in a variety of situations, one of which is the Sexual Assault & Anti-Violence Information office, SAAVI.
“I know SAAVI is meant to help with sexual assault and violence. I’ve been told that they also help with relationships and healthy habits,” Finch said.
“I know SAAVI is a school resource that can be used for individuals who have experienced sexual assault or violence in their life and they help get students help, or connected with the necessary help to get through it,” Greer said.
“SAVVI is an on-campus aide that helps those who have or are being abused. They seem like really nice people. They are also confidential, so that’s really good for people who are scared,” Warde said.
Alexis LeBaron, a senior at USU, is the Utah Marriage Commission intern program coordinator. LeBaron said it is important for people to gain the courage to be proud of who they are.
“Maybe you’re not in a relationship like your grandma wants you to be, but just being like, ‘I’m OK with knowing that I’m not exactly where I was and I’m not exactly where I want to be, but I can be happy with where I’m at,’” LeBaron said.
Whitney Howard, a victim advocate for SAAVI, said a healthy relationship is about openness.
“Healthy relationships are built on trust, communication, and mutual respect,” Howard said. “Concerns are expressed openly and boundaries are respected. In any healthy relationship, all parties should feel safe, comfortable, empowered and supported to be their best selves.”
According to Howard, SAAVI can help in a situation when a relationship becomes unhealthy.
“We understand that relationships are complicated,” Howard said. “It can be hard to accept that a person we care about is capable of harm. SAAVI provides a free, confidential space for anyone at Utah State to receive information and know their options. You will never be judged or pressured to make a decision. Our advocates strive to empower you in whatever decisions you make regarding your own life and relationships.”