When it comes to managing stress in relationships, nurturing healthy connections and boundaries is crucial. Healthy relationships can serve as a buffer against stress, while unhealthy relationships can exacerbate it. Communication, empathy, and setting boundaries are essential components of nurturing healthy connections.

Effective communication is key to maintaining healthy relationships. By openly discussing stressors and concerns, partners can work together to find solutions and provide support for each other. For example, expressing feelings of stress due to work pressures can lead to a collaborative effort to manage time and responsibilities more effectively.

Empathy plays a significant role in fostering healthy connections. Understanding and validating each other's emotions can strengthen the bond between partners and create a supportive environment. When one partner is stressed, the other can offer empathy and understanding, which can help alleviate the burden of stress.

Setting boundaries is essential for maintaining individual well-being within a relationship. This can include establishing personal space, alone time, or defining responsibilities. For instance, setting boundaries around work-related discussions during personal time can help create a healthy balance and reduce stress from spilling over into personal life.

References:

1. Feeney, J. A., & Collins, N. L. (2015). A new look at social support: A theoretical perspective on thriving through relationships. Personality and Social Psychology Review, 19(2), 113-147.
2. Miller, G. E., & Chen, E. (2010). Harsh family climate in early life presages the emergence of a proinflammatory phenotype in adolescence. Psychological Science, 21(6), 848-856.