Healthy Relationships Start Here
Whether you want to strengthen your bond, navigate something difficult, or understand what a healthy relationship looks like - you’re in the right place.
What a Healthy Relationship Looks Like
No relationship is perfect - but these are the foundations worth building on.
- ✓You feel safe being honest with each other
- ✓Disagreements happen without fear, name-calling, or threats
- ✓Both of you have space for friends, hobbies, and personal time
- ✓Decisions are made together, not handed down by one person
- ✓Mistakes are worked through - not held over your head
- ✓You both feel heard, valued, and respected
- ✓Affection and intimacy feel comfortable and mutual
- ✓You support each other's growth and individual goals
Warning Signs to Know
These behaviours aren’t always obvious at first. Recognising them is the first step - in yourself, in your relationship, or in helping someone you care about.
Emotional Signs
- ›Constant criticism, humiliation, or put-downs
- ›Making you feel worthless, stupid, or 'lucky' to have them
- ›Dismissing or mocking your feelings
- ›Withdrawing affection or communication as punishment
- ›Extreme jealousy or possessiveness framed as love
Controlling Signs
- ›Monitoring your messages, calls, or whereabouts
- ›Isolating you from friends or family
- ›Controlling money, how you dress, or where you go
- ›Making all decisions without your input
- ›Needing to know where you are at all times
Abusive Signs
- ›Any form of physical harm or threats of harm
- ›Threatening to hurt you, themselves, or people you love
- ›Pressuring or forcing sexual activity
- ›Destroying your belongings or property
- ›Making you feel like you deserved or caused the abuse
If any of this feels familiar, please know - it is not your fault, and support is available. See the resources below.
Having Difficult Conversations Safely
Hard conversations are a normal part of any close relationship. These are some ways to approach them with care.
Choose a calm moment
Avoid raising serious topics mid-argument or when either of you is tired or stressed. Ask to talk when you're both in a reasonably good headspace.
Use 'I' statements
Say 'I feel hurt when...' rather than 'You always...' - it reduces defensiveness and keeps the conversation about feelings, not blame.
Agree to take breaks
If things escalate, it's okay to pause. Say 'I need ten minutes to calm down - I want to keep talking, just not right now.' Then come back.
Listen to understand
Try to understand their perspective before forming your response. You don't have to agree - but feeling heard makes resolution more likely.
Know your limits
If a conversation ever feels unsafe - if you're scared, being threatened, or your partner refuses to engage respectfully - it's okay to leave that conversation.
Trusted Resources
These organisations offer free, confidential support. You don’t need to be in crisis to reach out - they’re here for anyone who wants guidance.
loveisrespect
Peer advocates available 24/7 for young people experiencing relationship abuse. Chat, call, or text.
National Domestic Violence Hotline
Free, confidential support 24/7 for anyone affected by domestic violence. Call 1-800-799-7233, chat, or text.
Women's Aid
A federation of domestic abuse services offering live chat support, a survivor forum, and a local service directory.
1800RESPECT
Australia's national sexual assault, domestic and family violence counselling service. Available 24/7.
Befrienders Worldwide
Emotional support for anyone in distress, regardless of age, gender, or location. Find a centre near you.
Need to report something?
If you’ve experienced something concerning within the Kouple app, our safety team is here to help.