The importance of healthy relationships and how to foster them as seen on CBC shows
According to research, healthy relationships matter more than you expect.
Have you ever noticed that after hanging out or having a really great Zoom call with a loved one you tend to feel happier and more relaxed? Healthy relationships can give us a sense of belonging and purpose, in turn making us less stressed because we get to share and laugh.
According to a recent piece from Harvard, "good connections and social support can improve health and increase longevity."
The results from Harvard's meta-analysis of 148 longitudinal studies, involving more than 300,000 people, show that people who have regular contact with family, friends and neighbours have a survival advantage comparable in magnitude with kicking the smoking habit and about twice as large as the longevity benefit that comes from exercising regularly or maintaining a normal weight.
With this in mind, we scoured a few of our popular drama and comedy titles and looked for great examples of the lessons we can learn to ensure those relationships continue flourishing.
Emotional understanding is key
In this scene from Heartland, Ty is consoling Amy and shows us exactly how easy it is to just listen and make others feel better.
Or just be there, Alexis style. That works too. She's one of Schitt's Creek's beloved characters known for her epic A Little Bit Alexis dance which went viral on social media and her epic one liners, but Alexis definitely makes an effort to be supportive. In her own awkward way.
Honesty is the best policy
Workin' Moms know how to be real and say it like it is. And they don't forget to give oddly funny but valid advice.
Be real even when you know their reaction may not be what you'd like it to be. Johnny Rose of Schitt's Creek can attest.
And of course, sometimes things are better kept quiet.
Don't be judgemental
Marcie of Diggstown is the queen of prosecution in court but with family she certainly doesn't judge. Well, not really.
Show that you care
Frankie Drake was certainly glad to hear her old friend missed her. It's a good reminder that If you care about someone, let them know.
And celebrate their success! Aliyah, of Utopia Falls, demonstrates this by giving her friend a huge hug as he wins his spot in the competition that she is also a part of.
"The most important thing we've learned, the thing that totally stands out in all of the developmental psychology, social psychology and our lab's work in the last 35 years is that the secret to loving relationships and to keeping them strong and vibrant over the years, to falling in love again and again, is emotional responsiveness," said Sue Johnson, a clinical psychologist in Ottawa to Time Magazine.
An apology goes a long way
When you feel hurt, it really helps to hear that apology. In this example, from season two of Diggstown, lead character Marcie Diggs didn't even know she needed it.
Apologies might not be comfortable and we can relate to Schitt's Creek's David, who is clearly having trouble with saying sorry.
Grandpa Jack, one of the most beloved characters from Heartland, is a great example of how we all make mistakes and it's never too late to apologize, even to those little ones who also get upset.
Support and empower
We all need it. Even Burden of Truth's Joanna who is a powerhouse lawyer. She is losing faith in herself, in this clip, but Billy's support makes the world of difference.
Sometimes they just don't know they need you and this Workin' Moms example shows how two generations can be unaware of it. One because of age and the other, well, judge for yourself.
So just show up like Heartland's Peter did for Lou. She really needed support during her mayoral campaign and he just made himself available. Simple.
Advise and protect
Higgins, a police officer from Murdoch Mysteries, sure appreciates it. His boss, the famous Inspector Brackenreid, seems to really want to ensure his well being and gives firm advice.
And Mary from Frankie Drake Mysteries understands that Frankie has her best interest at heart.
Yes, they may not always take your advice, as Appa's "best friend" from our comedy Kim's Convenience demonstrates, but it's worth a try.
It's ok to be vulnerable
Heartland is filled with these moments and this one where Georgie pours her heart out is just so pure.
Don't forget to have fun
Be silly with each other and laugh just like the Frankie Drake Mysteries gals.
And stay in touch with those you care for deeply
It's important to nurture meaningful relationships. "Commit to investing an hour — on an ongoing basis — to work on strengthening your relationship, troubleshooting, and making it more satisfying," said Manhattan-based licensed clinical psychologist, Joseph Cilona, Psy.D. to The Oprah Magazine.
While we remain in self-isolation, that could be over Skype, phone or text messages. It's good for your relationships and according to Harvard research, "meaningful relationships are a prescription for better emotional, mental, and physical health."
Find more of these beautifully portrayed moments from our shows on CBC Gem.
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