The post How to Build a Positive Relationship With Your Teen: Strategies for Parents and Caregivers appeared first on One Love Foundation.

They’re Always Grinchin’ (Possessiveness) 

If they’re acting more like the Grinch than your holiday hero—always checking your phone, questioning your plans, or throwing a fit because you’re spending time with family or friends—it’s giving . Healthy relationships respect your independence. You don’t need a permission slip to enjoy your traditions. 

They Freeze You Out (Isolation) 

One minute, they’re all cozy for the holidays, and the next, they’re pressuring you to skip family gatherings or drop your usual celebrations to spend time only with them. It’s not love—it’s isolation, and it’s not festive. 

Constant “Jingle Bell” Drama (Guilting) 

“After everything I’ve done for you, you’re really going to go to that party without me?” Sound familiar? Using guilt to control you is toxic, not thoughtful. Healthy relationships encourage you to celebrate freely. 

They Trim Your Confidence (Belittling) 

No, their comment about your ugly sweater wasn’t “just a joke.” If they’re constantly making low-key digs or full-on mean remarks about you, it’s belittling—and a big red flag. Relationships should build you up like a sparkling tree, not tear you down like fallen ornaments. 

All About Them (Manipulation) 

If every decision—from which party to attend to what you gift—is dictated by their wants, you’re not in a healthy relationship. Manipulation isn’t merry, and relationships should always feel like a two-way street. 

They’re a Holiday Wildcard (Volatility) 

Do their moods swing more than a snow globe? If you’re constantly on edge, never knowing when they’ll lash out or apologize, it’s not festive—it’s volatile. Healthy relationships bring peace, not chaos. 

The Best Gift You Can Give Yourself 

This holiday season, don’t let someone else’s unhealthy behavior dim your light. Set boundaries, lean on your support system, and remember that you deserve relationships as magical as the holidays themselves. Also, unhealthy behavior can sometimes escalate to abuse – so knowing the earliest warning signs is to keeping yourself and your friends safe.  

If this resonates with you or someone you know, you’re not alone. One Love Foundation offers free resources to help you recognize and build healthy relationships. If you or someone you know needs support in an unhealthy or abusive relationship, get help here.  

Support our mission this Giving Season by donating today. Your gift helps us provide life-changing tools and resources to individuals everywhere. Donate Here and spread love that lasts all year long. 

Let’s keep the holidays about joy, connection, and love—the healthy kind.  

— Carla Mitchell Kozen, Content Manager

The post Don’t Be on the Naughty List: Spotting Unhealthy Relationship Signs This Holiday Season appeared first on One Love Foundation.

1. Trust

Trust that your family has good intentions, even if things get awkward. If you anticipate uncomfortable topics coming up, assume positive intent and show trust in your partner by giving them a heads-up so they feel supported and prepared to navigate the situation with you. 

2. Honesty

Be real with your partner about what to expect. If your family’s known for bold opinions, say so. A quick “My family loves big debates, feel free to just listen or laugh it off!” can help them feel less pressured. 

3. Independence

You and your partner are a team, but you don’t have to have the same answers to everything. Let them handle convos in their way—sometimes just being there together is enough. 

4. Respect

Respect goes both ways. Respect your partner’s comfort level and encourage your family to do the same. No pressure to jump in if they’d rather chill and listen. 

5. Equality

Make sure both you and your partner feel included. If they’re quiet, help bring them into lighter conversations that feel natural. 

6. Kindness

Kindness can go a long way. Compliment your partner in front of your family and keep the vibes light and welcoming. 

7. Healthy Conflict

If things get intense, handle disagreements calmly. Reassure your partner it’s fine to disagree respectfully, but they don’t have to feel responsible for changing anyone’s mind. 

8. Comfortable Pace

Holiday conversations can be overwhelming. If you sense your partner needs a breather, suggest a quick break together—grab a snack, step outside, or just change the topic. Family gatherings often bring up “big questions,” like how serious you are, whether you’re planning to move in together, or even when it’s time to “pop the question.” To avoid surprises, talk about these topics in advance so you’re both on the same page when those questions come up. 

9. Taking Responsibility

Sometimes things are said in the heat of the moment. If you or your partner feels uncomfortable, talk about it later and apologize if needed. Being supportive means owning any missteps, together. 

10. Fun

Make time to enjoy each other! Find moments to laugh and relax together, even if family conversations get heavy. You’ll both appreciate the lighter moments. 

With these tips, you and your partner can face holiday conversations as a team, keeping things drama-free and focused on what really matters.  

Want to read up on 3 Relationship Stressors to Avoid This Holiday Season? Check out this blog! 

At One Love, we’re dedicated to keeping our resources free through generous donations. If you want to support healthy relationships for everyone, donate here. 

Happy holidays!  

Carla M Kozen, Content Manager

The post How to Have Healthy Holiday Conversations with Family (and Prep Your Partner)  appeared first on One Love Foundation.

October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month, a time to illuminate the often-hidden struggles faced by individuals in abusive relationships. At One Love, we believe that sharing stories empowers survivors and helps others recognize the signs of relationship abuse. Here are a few powerful narratives from our “Share Your Story” campaign that remind us of the importance of support and resilience. Your story has the incredible power to bring hope to fellow survivors. Every journey is unique, and by sharing your experiences, you can offer strength and courage to others who are navigating their own paths to healing. If you believe your story can provide hope and healing, we invite you to share it with us. Our goal is to uplift teens who may currently be facing various challenges, helping them see that they are not alone and that recovery is possible through the support of a caring community. 

Aubrey’s Journey to Self-Discovery 

Aubrey faced bullying from the age of twelve, feeling isolated for years. When she met someone who made her feel valued, it seemed like a turning point. However, the relationship turned controlling. “I realized he was demanding unreasonable requests for my money and intimacy,” Aubrey shares. 

Despite the ridicule she endured, new friendships in college showed her what real love looked like, helping her break free from the relationship. Aubrey emphasizes: “No one deserves to feel trapped. Find your people who help you channel your inner strength; it may save your life.” 

Kia’s Empowering Path 

Kia is a survivor of child sexual abuse and domestic violence. Despite her trauma, she is pursuing a double major in criminal justice and paralegal studies to become a victim advocate, supporting those who feel they have lost their voice. Her journey illustrates that pain can be transformed into purpose. 

Carson’s Road to Recovery 

After a year in an unhealthy relationship, Carson felt hopeless and self-doubting. Prioritizing his health and cutting unhealthy ties helped him reclaim his life. “Two years later, I am exactly where I want to be,” Carson shares, reminding us that healing is possible. 

These stories show that while the journey through relationship abuse is challenging, there is strength in community and power in sharing our truths. One Love is dedicated to providing free resources to youth on recognizing and addressing relationship abuse. If you or someone you know is experiencing relationship abuse, you are not alone. 

Visit our website to share your story and access valuable resources. Together, we can foster a community that promotes love, respect, and empowerment. 

Help us continue our mission—donate today! For more information, visit One Love Foundation. 

— Carla M Kozen, Content Manager 

The post Finding Strength in Our Stories: Domestic Violence Awareness Month appeared first on One Love Foundation.