Julia Pugachevsky

Unsurprisingly, when you're in a <a data-link-role-code="open_new_tab" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/signs-youre-in-a-healthy-relationship-2023-11">healthy relationship</a> with a secure, <a data-link-role-code="open_new_tab" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/signs-someone-emotionally-mature-just-started-dating-2024-1">emotionally mature partner</a>, your overall health improves, too. Studies show that a happy relationship can help you live longer, from boosting your immune system to even dulling pain.

When you're in a good relationship, you feel hopeful about the future, <a href="https://www.cedu.niu.edu/cahe/about/faculty/suzanne-degges-white.shtml">Suzanne Degges-White</a>, a licensed counselor and professor at Northern Illinois University, told Business Insider. She said this hopefulness and excitement can translate to physical and emotional benefits as well.

Degges-White shared a few telltale signs that your romantic relationship not only feels good, but is good for you.

<h2>1. Your body feels relaxed around your partner</h2>

When trying to figure out if a relationship is good for you, Degges-White said a great barometer is your level of stress.

"When we're with someone we don't want to be around, our body's tense and we may not notice it until we're out of their company," she said. "The opposite is true for someone you feel good around. When we think about the people we care about, we feel a sense of expansion and warmth in our bodies."

In fact, a partner who's healthy for you doesn't even have to be in the room for you to feel calmer.&nbsp;

"If you think about someone smiling at you right now, your lips may be going up into that automatic reflex smile," she said. "Because when people smile at us, we smile. If thinking of your loved one smiling makes you grin," she said, "that's a solid sign that you genuinely feel connected and safe with them."

<h2>2. You're more energized</h2>

Degges-White said that when you're in a bad relationship, your body can feel lethargic — like you don't have the energy to move.

"But when you're in a healthy relationship, you feel capable. You feel like you can take on the world because you feel like there's a lightness," she explained.

Laughing and talking to people you love are <a data-link-role-code="open_new_tab" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/guides/health/mental-health/i-dont-want-to-do-anything">known energy boosters</a>, so if you're in a relationship that feels stable and fun, you're likely to feel more ready to take on the day.

<h2>3. You adopt new healthy habits</h2>

An interesting side-effect of a healthy relationship is that it can encourage you to prioritise your health in other areas, according to Degges-White.

"Because a healthy relationship makes us more energetic and optimistic, it makes <a data-link-role-code="open_new_tab" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/quick-life-hacks-increase-longevity-2023-8">adopting incremental healthy habits</a> a little easier. When our relationships are going well, the rest of our life will usually follow. We're thinking about the choices we're making, with exercise, with diet," she said

It doesnt necessarily mean you have to run a marathon or be a super athlete as proof of a healthy bond. But you might be more willing to take a walk or bike ride if a partner you love wants to go together.

It's more that sense of being ready and capable and able to do these things and to want to do these things, she said.

Healthy romantic relationships can improve your physical and mental health. A licensed counselor shared some signs a relationship is great for your overall health. Good relationships make you feel relaxed, energized, and more invested in healthy habits.

3 signs you're in a mature relationship that is improving your physical health

I was sick of seeing my fine lines and judging my past self for <a data-link-role-code="open_new_tab" href="https://www.insider.com/how-to-repair-sun-damaged-skin-according-to-dermatologist-2023-4">neglecting sunscreen</a>. So with a discount code in hand, I shuffled into a local Botox clinic.

I had already looked up the price tag and possible side effects. Besides, because I write about skincare at work, I figured I already had the basics down.

Still, after getting briefed on all the potential risks and the aftercare instructions, there were some things that I wish I had known before I got my first jab.

<h2>1. There's a small chance you can get a droopy eyelid — for weeks</h2>

Before the procedure, the nurse practitioner had me sign a form consenting to all possible risks — including an "eyelid droop," also called ptosis. About 5% of patients can experience this, according to WebMD, with the number dropping to 1% with more experienced dermatologists.

My NP was honest with me that while it's never happened with one of her clients, some patients of the clinic had gotten ptosis in the past. If it were to happen, it would take about 3-4 weeks to improve as the neurotoxin would <a data-link-role-code="open_new_tab" href="https://www.insider.com/three-ways-to-make-botox-last-longer-zinc-dosing-brands-2023-10">start to wear off</a>.

It made me worry, because I had a choir performance, holiday parties, and family events in the coming weeks. But I realised that there's no time in my life where I have nowhere to be for three weeks, so I decided to chance it. Luckily, that side effect didn't happen to me.

<h2>2. You can get headaches, but you can't take some common pain relievers</h2>

Perhaps not surprising, but getting jabbed with a needle about 20 times all over your forehead leads to mild discomfort. I had two tiny bruises on my forehead and a low-grade headache two days after the shots.

However, my NP warned me to avoid taking blood thinners like ibuprofen, which is what I had at home, as it could increase bruising. I ended up just riding out the headache because I was too lazy to buy Tylenol, but I'll stock up beforehand next time.

<h2>3. You shouldn't work out or drink the day after</h2>

My NP advised me not to drink alcohol or work out for at least 24 hours. This guidance varies — some experts say you can do moderate exercise after four hours. Others say to avoid alcohol before the procedure and up to 48 hours after.

Luckily, I didn't have any plans the next day and was feeling a little burned out from the weekend, so it was a nice excuse to do nothing. Next time, I'll make sure to keep this in mind so I don't plan the injections around an event or workout class.

<h2>4. You can't do Botox if you're pregnant or trying to get pregnant</h2>

I know from my past reporting that in order to have long-term results, you need to be consistent with Botox and get it every 3-4 months — otherwise, the effects fade.

Because I couldn't afford it in my 20s and was so indecisive about it once I could, I'm now starting treatments only a few years before I want to try having a child. But I learned not only should I not get Botox while pregnant, I should steer clear of it if I breastfeed and even when I'm trying to conceive, as the possible effects on the feotus are still unknown.

While I'll continue getting Botox until then, it means I might miss out on years of it, and my forehead will revert back to what it looked like before.

Luckily, Dr Stacey Tull, <a data-link-role-code="open_new_tab" href="https://www.insider.com/signs-youre-ready-for-botox-according-to-a-dermatologist-2023-10">a dermatologist I previously spoke to</a>, said that "even deep-set lines will eventually disappear if you don't allow the muscles to crease the skin" — it just might take longer to get there. So I can always pick up where I left off.

Honestly, it's kind of a relief: I can't imagine booking appointments in the middle of raising an infant. By then, I'm sure I (and my wallet) will welcome the break.

I got a few small bruises on my forehead after my Botox injections. Julia Pugachevsky

Four things you should know before getting Botox.

4 things I wish I knew before getting Botox for the first time

As a child, Sylina Lyew always felt something was wrong with her. She sought out quiet environments. She struggled taking tests or playing the violin in public, faltering under the pressure. And she felt easily flooded by her emotions.

"In early adulthood, I realised that I was just more sensitive than other people," Lyew, now a licensed mental health therapist, told Business Insider.

Lyew identifies as <a data-link-role-code="open_new_tab" href="https://www.insider.com/what-is-highly-sensitive-person-traits-signs-you-are-2023-7">a highly sensitive person</a> or HSP, a term popularised by psychology researcher Elaine Aron. It describes people who have a lower threshold for some physical and emotional stimuli.

While she said that high sensitivity was never officially covered in her psychology training, Lyew said it helps her understand herself and her clients better.

Imi Lo, a mental health consultant who works with highly sensitive clients, said that more awareness of HSPs is important.

"The worst is when you don't know that you are highly sensitive, and then you've been told all your life that you're weird and problematic and dramatic," Lo said.

Lo and Lyew shared seven traits experienced by highly sensitive people.

<h2>1. You may have some sensory sensitivities</h2>

HSPs "can be quite physically sensitive," Lo said, whether they're bothered by uncomfortable clothing, strong smells, or loud noises.

Lyew said that avoiding violent movie scenes and jump scares is a hallmark HSP trait. She likes to watch movies at home so she can fast-forward through the uncomfortable parts.

While people with ADHD and autism might also have sensory sensitivities, Lo said that being highly sensitive doesn't mean you have these diagnoses.

"There's definitely an overlap, but they're not the same," she said.

In her original research on HSPs, Elaine Aron estimated that one in five people fit her criteria for being highly sensitive — this is higher than the number of people who have ADHD or autism.

<h2>2. You might pick up on people's moods easily</h2>

Aside from absorbing their physical environments, HSPs also are sensitive to their emotional environments. Lo said that many of her clients "report walking into a room and sensing the tension."

If someone in a group is visibly sad or frustrated, HSPs will often notice and be more bothered by it. "Sometimes, they don't really consciously know it, but they can walk out of a room and feel absolutely exhausted," Lo said.

In a blog post, Aron wrote: "When seeing photos of their loved ones being unhappy, sensitive persons also showed more activation in areas suggesting they wanted to do something, to act, even more than in areas involving empathy."

After an unpleasant interaction, Lo said HSPs can even experience physical symptoms, such as migraines or sleepiness.

<h2>3. You need more time to recharge</h2>

Because HSPs can get more easily overwhelmed by physical stimuli, Lo said they might experience burnout faster and often need more time to replenish their energy.

Lyew said that some HSPs, like herself, are introverted. For example, she avoids partying and seeks out quiet environments where she can really think.

But both Lo and Lyew said that HSPs can also be extroverted — they may just need more time to recharge.

"Some people really replenish from companions and talking through things, some people really need to curl up in bed," Lo said.

Lo said that HSPs knowing themselves and their ideal ways to recharge is really important. "It's not that they are more weak or fragile, it's just that they're more particular," she said. "So they need rest and a particular way of self-care to replenish their energy."

<h2>4. You prioritise deep friendships</h2>

Due to being more sensitive, HSPs also tend to crave deeper connections.

"It doesn't necessarily mean they have very deep conversations, although that usually helps," Lo said. "But it could just be a shared quiet space where they energetically feel each other's presence."

Even more extroverted HSPs prefer having fewer, long-lasting relationships over making a new friend every week, according to Lo.

While HSPs don't always hate small talk, Lyew said it can drain their energy.

"I think sometimes small talk is necessary so it's unavoidable, but in general, with our personal relationships we have a need to talk about deep topics," she said.

<h2>5. You take time to process emotions</h2>

Just like reacting to lots of physical stimuli, HSPs can also get emotionally overwhelmed, Lyew said.

"In relationships, we get flooded very easily," she said. "We usually need to take more time to calm down and to sort out our thoughts."

This can make heated arguments more complicated, as HSPs often need space to withdraw and collect their thoughts.

<h2>6. You falter under pressure — or feel enormous stress</h2>

Due to being easily overstimulated, HSPs often don't do well under pressure, Lyew said.

"We usually don't test as well," she said. Standardised tests or performances can be especially difficult.

Being put on the spot can also cause a highly sensitive person's mind to go blank.

"I remember one time I was in a work meeting and they called on me without me being prepared mentally," Lyew said. "So they asked me a question and I knew the right answer, but I gave the wrong one in the moment."

Sometimes, HSPs do perform well – but experience extreme stress throughout the experience. In her blog post, Aron referenced a German study where "HSPs were faster and more accurate, but also more stressed than others" after completing a computer task.

<h2>7. Harnessing your sensitivity can help you excel</h2>

While Lo said it's a bit of a stereotype that HSPs are always artsy, she believes that some people "are drawn to art because they feel quite misunderstood for most of their life."

For some HSPs who struggle to fit in, making and appreciating art helps them connect with themselves and other HSPs.

Lyew said that being hyper-perceptive also helps HSPs excel in other professions. "Being able to see those issues is what allows us to be better in whatever we're doing," whether HSPs are teachers, managers, or parents.

It's why Lo thinks the highly sensitive label can be really helpful for some people. "If you know that you are highly sensitive, then you can actually do things to manage your sensitivity, and even use it as a strength," she said.

High sensitivity refers to people who have lower thresholds for some physical and emotional stimuli. While not an official diagnosis, it can be a helpful label for people who feel more sensitive.

7 signs you're a highly sensitive person — even if you're a chatty extrovert

One of them is tweaking your diet, according to Andrea Holwegner, a registered dietitian and CEO of Health Stand Nutrition Consulting.

Holwegner, who says she works with many clients who have ADHD, said there are two main things you can try to improve your diet: changing what you eat and adding supplements.

"As a dietitian, I'm trained in really looking at food first for just about everything," Holwegner told Insider. "No supplement's going to make up for the fact that people might not have an optimal diet."

She noted that research has shown that some people with ADHD can have vitamin deficiencies that may impact their symptoms. Holwegner shared some dietary changes and supplements that may be helpful for certain people with ADHD.

Use up extra leftovers with high-protein turkey burgers.Gala Didebashvili/Getty Images

Consider chopping up turkey leftovers and combining it with breadcrumbs, eggs, and roasted veggies for a high-protein, high-fiber turkey burger.  Feel free to experiment with the seasonings and veggies you add, as Taub-Dix does."I'm kind of a recipe rebel and rarely follow any recipe to the T," she said.

If you still have more turkey, mix it into homemade burgers

Before trying any supplements, Holwegner strongly emphasized making sure that anyone with ADHD is eating enough protein.

Protein in general is essential for everyone's brain to function properly, and <a data-link-role-code="open_new_tab" href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK224629/">research shows</a> that protein and its related amino acids are essential for cognitive performance.

<a href="https://www.insider.com/adhd-hacks-for-meal-prepping-consistently-2023-9">Meal-prepping</a> and prioritizing protein-rich foods with some carbs can help manage hunger levels, reducing the chances someone will fill up on sugary or ultra-processed foods. (Some research has linked sugary foods to an increase in ADHD symptoms in kids, but so far the science is mixed.)

Holwegner said that meat, poultry, seafood, eggs, nut butters, seeds, cheese, yogurt, legumes, tofu, and protein powder are all good sources of protein.

<h2>2. Incorporate omega-3</h2>

Fish oil contains two different omega-3 fatty acids, called docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA).Getty Images

<a data-link-role-code="open_new_tab" href="https://www.insider.com/guides/health/diet-nutrition/omega-3-benefits">Omega-3 fatty acids</a> have been linked to improved ADHD symptoms in children, and there are several ways to incorporate them into a diet.

"Ideally, if you can go for a fattier fish 2-3 times a week in your meal planning, this would be awesome," Holwegner said. Fatty fish include salmon, mackerel, tuna, sardines, and herring.

But if you absolutely hate seafood or don't have access to it, Holwegner recommended taking an omega-3 fish oil supplement that includes both EPA and DHA — two types of fatty acids.

She said this combination is shown "to be pretty helpful not only just for ADHD management but also cardiovascular disease and good overall mental health functioning."

While plant-based alternatives of omega-3 (also known as ALA) are "still very helpful," Holwegner said that when it gets converted into EPA and DHA in the body, it's believed to convert to very low levels of usable fatty acids.

<h2>3. Take a daily multivitamin</h2>

Limited research has shown that some children with ADHD may be deficient in certain vitamins like iron, magnesium, zinc, and vitamin D.

One easy and safe way to boost levels of all of these is by taking a multivitamin, which can also help with everything from <a data-link-role-code="open_new_tab" href="https://www.insider.com/cardiologist-takes-supplements-folic-acid-b12-vitamin-d-2023-10">heart health</a> to <a data-link-role-code="open_new_tab" href="https://www.insider.com/dermatologist-takes-supplements-vitamin-d-e-nicotinamide-resveratrol-multivitamin-2023-10">clearer skin</a>.

"A multivitamin is an extra added assurance for everybody, whether you have ADHD or not," Holwegner said. "It pops up all your levels and I don't see any harm in taking an age-appropriate multivitamin for anybody."

If you have trouble remembering to take pills daily, Holwegner recommended setting timers on your cellphone or taking them at the same time as you take other medications.

<h2>4. Get screened for other vitamin deficiencies</h2>

If you want to try more specific supplements such as iron or magnesium, Holwegner said you should get your physician to screen you for vitamin deficiencies before you try them. Many of them can be screened for by a simple blood test.

Fish is one of the best sources of omega-3 fats.Shana Novak/Getty Images

If you have ADHD symptoms such as forgetfulness or hyperactivity, there are some simple hacks you can try to alleviate them.

4 diet changes that may help ADHD symptoms, according to a dietitian

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Julia Pugachevsky

Articles written by the author

3 signs you're in a mature relationship that is improving your physical health

4 things I wish I knew before getting Botox for the first time

7 signs you're a highly sensitive person — even if you're a chatty extrovert

4 diet changes that may help ADHD symptoms, according to a dietitian