No relationship is without conflict, but living in constant turmoil in one or more of your relationships can be detrimental to your mental health. When we experience arguments, feel unheard or undervalued, or find ourselves in an unhealthy relationship because of constant disagreements with others, our system is flooded with stress hormones like cortisol and adrenaline and our sympathetic nervous system remains active as we are constantly aroused in order to fight or flee. As a result, we may experience high blood pressure, increased heart and respiration rates, and anxiety.

Dealing with relationship conflict in a healthy manner improves mental health, wellbeing, and relationship satisfaction. Some tips:

1. Address issues in a timely fashion.  Rather than letting frustration build, talk about problems when they arise.
2. Stick to the issue at hand. Avoid bringing up problems from the past. Also, focus on the problem itself rather than attacking each other. Even if the problem is the other person's behavior, keep the focus on the behavior and its effects rather than on the person as a whole.
3. Do something to de-stress after an argument. Do something enjoyable together, take a mindful  walk on your own, or take a few moments to breathe slowly and deeply.

Handling relationship conflicts positively and allowing yourself to move on afterward helps you maintain a healthy balance in your body and in your relationships. This promotes mental health and wellbeing.