Effective Communication and Relationships
Communication is one of the most important building blocks in healthy, long-lasting relationships, and when done effectively can improve self esteem. Communication is used in all types of relationships and social interactions, from coworkers to family members or anyone else you interact with and is oftentimes overlooked. Having good communication skills starts with being aware of the different types/ways one can communicate and then being able to implement them in real life scenarios.
To aid in your successful communication skills, try these steps:
Stop
Talk about focusing on the other person, such as their thoughts, feelings, emotions.
Look
Focus on their non-verbal messages, avoid becoming distracted, stay attentive.
Listen
Take note of the essence of the thoughts the speaker is conveying. Specifically the details, major ideas, and their meaning.
Empathy
“The ability to understand and share the feelings of another.”
Ask questions
Be curious. Inquire and follow-up to demonstrate deep interest.
Paraphrase
Summarize to show that you understand or can validate what they are experiencing.
“I” statements
Convey to the speaker and express how you feel.
Different types of communication
Writing, texting, verbal communication, non-verbal, etc.
Look out for poor communication skills as well
The communication style with potentially the most consequences is an avoidant communication style of an entire lack of communication. This may lead to you not getting your needs met, which in turn can lead to anxiety and depression and contribute to unhealthy relationship dynamics. It may seem difficult to communicate your feelings, especially if you’re worried about how the other person will react to them, but bottling up those thoughts and feelings often leads to resentment.
Other poor communication skills you should be aware of include:
Passive listening instead of active listening
Shutting down
Yelling or screaming
Becoming physically or verbally abusive
Dismissing other people’s point of view
Demonstrating passive-aggressive behavior
Not being clear about expectations, needs, or wants
Giving the silent treatment
Interrupting
Taking time to reflect on how you communicate is the first step. Communicating intentionally can be difficult and does not come naturally to all, but it is something that can be done with time and effort!
Additional Resources
For those in need of immediate support and guidance, NAMI HelpLines offer free, nationwide peer-support services. Whether it's information, resource referrals, or simply a listening ear, these helplines are available to individuals living with mental health conditions, their families, caregivers, and even mental health providers.
You can reach the NAMI HelpLine at 1-800-950-NAMI (6264), text "HelpLine" to 62640, or chat with them at nami.org/help, Monday through Friday, from 10 A.M. to 10 P.M., ET. For teenagers and young adults seeking support, the NAMI Teen & Young Adult HelpLine is available at the same number and text options.