People who are authentic, vulnerable, communicative, and in therapy?
People who are closed off, afraid to get real, and derisive of mental health issues?
This shift is helping us choose partners that were morecompatiblewith and navigate relationships with better communication.
Alina Rudya/Bell Collective / Getty Images
Thankfully, things have started to change.
The stigma around therapy has reduced significantly, says Dr. Romanoff.
And in turn, research shows us that the number of men going to therapy has been increasing steadily.
We Understand Ourselves and Our Relationships Better
Therapyhelps us understand ourselves better.
The insights and skills gained in therapy tend to contribute to healthier and more meaningful relationships.
Therapy can be a supportive space to navigate the ups and downs of a stable relationship.
In turn, this helps us select partners who may be a better fit for us.
Were able to connect with others more deeply and the walls come down sooner.
Were often more comfortable being ourauthenticselves with our partners earlier oneven if that means exposing our vulnerabilities.
In turn, we also get to know our partners truer selves earlier.
As a result, the connection often feels stronger and more genuine.
Were also not wasting time with people who might not accept us for who we are.
(Thanks, but no thanks!)
For example, just because a relationship picks up steam quickly, doesnt mean the person islove-bombingyou.
Or, just because someone comes across as self-centered, doesnt necessarily mean theyre a card-carryingnarcissist.
This can sometimes play out in unhealthy relationship dynamics.
We dont always have to explain things to them, they just get it.
And they dont judge us, because theyre living with the same condition.
However, in the long run, being with someone who has a similar condition may not be easy.
Takeaways
Increased mental health awareness is changing the way we date, largely for the better.
2023 Feb 14;32:e11.
doi: 10.1017/S204579602300001X
Pure Journal.Been to therapy?
Your potential dates might find it really hot!
