Healthy Relationships & Consent
Building respectful connections, understanding boundaries, and developing communication skills for healthy relationships.
Complete Guide to Healthy Relationships & Consent
Why Relationships & Consent Matter
Relationships shape our health, happiness and safety. Whether between friends, family members, partners, classmates or colleagues, the quality of our interactions determines emotional wellbeing, productivity and social trust. Consent and clear communication are the foundations: they prevent harm, reduce confusion, and enable mutual respect.
In India and around the world, conversations about consent, boundaries and digital safety are becoming essential because the internet, social media and changing social norms have created new opportunities and new risks. This guide gives you practical language, scripts, checklists, and examples you can use today.
Quick takeaway:
Respect, clarity and willingness to learn are the most powerful tools for healthy relationships.
The Impact of Healthy Relationships
Research consistently shows that healthy relationships contribute significantly to overall wellbeing. People in supportive, respectful relationships experience:
Better Mental Health
Lower rates of depression, anxiety, and stress-related disorders
Improved Physical Health
Stronger immune systems and lower blood pressure
Longer Lifespan
Up to 50% increased survival rates compared to isolated individuals
Greater Resilience
Better ability to cope with life challenges and trauma
The Cost of Unhealthy Relationships
Conversely, unhealthy or abusive relationships have devastating consequences:
Mental Health Impact
Increased risk of PTSD, depression, anxiety, and substance abuse
Physical Health Consequences
Chronic pain, gastrointestinal issues, and increased vulnerability to illness
Economic Impact
Lost productivity, medical costs, and reduced earning potential
Intergenerational Impact
Children who witness unhealthy relationships are more likely to repeat patterns
By learning and practicing healthy relationship skills, we not only improve our own lives but contribute to healthier families, communities, and societies.
Understanding Consent
Consent means agreeing to something with a clear, informed, and voluntary "yes." It is a practice—something you ask for and something you listen for. Consent is required for physical intimacy, sharing private information or images, and for many everyday interactions (borrowing possessions, taking photos, close physical contact).
The FRIES Model of Consent
The FRIES model is a helpful mnemonic that outlines the essential characteristics of consent:
Freely Given
Consent must be given without pressure, manipulation, or coercion. It should be a choice made without fear of consequences for saying no.
Reversible
Anyone can change their mind at any time, even if they've previously consented. Consent is not a one-time permission that applies indefinitely.
Informed
All parties must know what they're agreeing to. Withholding information or lying invalidates consent.
Enthusiastic
Consent should be an excited "yes!" rather than reluctant agreement. Look for active participation, not just absence of "no."
Specific
Consent to one activity doesn't mean consent to others. Each new activity requires its own clear agreement.
Everyday Consent Examples
Consent is not only sexual. Examples you can practice today:
"Is it okay if I give you a hug?" "Would you like me to move closer or would you prefer more space?"
"Can I use your phone for a quick call?" "Would you mind if I shared this story with others?"
"Are you comfortable if I tag you in this photo?" "Would you like to join us or would you prefer to sit this one out?"
"Are you comfortable if I hold your hand?" "Would you like to kiss?" "How are you feeling about this?"
How to Ask for Consent and How to Respond
Simple phrases you can use in various situations:
What Does NOT Count as Consent?
It's crucial to understand that certain situations and behaviors cannot constitute valid consent:
Silence or Passivity
Not saying "no" is not the same as saying "yes." Consent requires active agreement.
Previous Consent
Agreeing to something once doesn't mean perpetual consent. Each encounter requires fresh consent.
Under Influence
Someone who is intoxicated, drugged, or otherwise impaired cannot give meaningful consent.
Coercion or Pressure
Consent given due to threats, manipulation, or persistent pressure is not valid.
Unconsciousness
Someone who is asleep, unconscious, or otherwise unable to communicate cannot consent.
Assumed Consent
Relationship status, clothing, flirtation, or previous sexual activity do not imply consent.
Teaching Tip:
Teach the language of consent early. Young people who know how to ask and say "no" safely are less likely to experience harm and more likely to develop healthy relationship patterns.
Quick Consent Scripts for Practice
Practice these short scripts aloud so they feel natural in real situations:
Consent Across Different Relationships
Consent practices vary depending on the relationship context but the core principles remain the same:
| Relationship Type | Consent Considerations | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Friendships | Respecting personal space, confidentiality, and emotional boundaries | Asking before sharing personal information, respecting when a friend needs space |
| Family Relationships | Respecting autonomy while maintaining care responsibilities | Knocking before entering rooms, not forcing physical affection on children |
| Romantic Partnerships | Ongoing communication about physical and emotional boundaries | Checking in about comfort levels, respecting when a partner says no |
| Professional Relationships | Maintaining appropriate boundaries and respecting personal limits | Not requiring social activities outside work hours, respecting personal space |
| Online Interactions | Respecting digital boundaries and privacy | Asking before tagging in photos, not sharing private messages |
Cultural Considerations for Consent
While consent principles are universal, their expression may vary across cultures:
In Indian Context:
Traditional values emphasizing family harmony and respect for elders can sometimes make explicit consent conversations challenging. However, these conversations are increasingly important in modern India where individual autonomy is valued alongside family relationships. Finding culturally appropriate ways to discuss boundaries and consent is essential.
Regardless of cultural background, everyone has the right to bodily autonomy and to set boundaries in their relationships. Learning to navigate consent respectfully within cultural contexts is a skill that strengthens rather than undermines cultural values.
Communication Skills that Build Trust
Clear, respectful communication is the engine of any healthy relationship. It's a skill we practice: listening, naming feelings, and asking clarifying questions. Developing emotional intelligence helps reduce reactive arguments and increases mutual understanding.
Core Communication Skills
Effective communication involves both expressing yourself clearly and understanding others accurately:
Active Listening
Give full attention, make eye contact, and paraphrase what you heard: "So you're saying...?" "It sounds like you feel..."
I-Statements
Express feelings without blaming: "I feel hurt when..." instead of "You always..."
Checking Understanding
Ask "Do I have that right?" to prevent misunderstandings before they escalate.
Nonverbal Awareness
Notice tone, eye contact, and body language — they matter as much as words in communication.
Conflict: A Healthy Approach
Conflicts are normal and can be productive when managed well. Here are steps for healthy conflict resolution:
Choose an appropriate time and place. Don't have important conversations when tired, hungry, or rushed. Ask: "Is now a good time to talk about something important?"
Name the issue without attacking the person. Use "I" statements: "I feel concerned when..." rather than "You always..."
Listen to the other person's perspective without interrupting. Try to understand their feelings and viewpoint.
Brainstorm solutions together. Focus on finding a resolution that works for both parties rather than "winning" the argument.
Agree on a next step and a timeline. Check back later to see whether the solution worked or needs adjustment.
Repair Language
Repairing after a conflict matters. Useful phrases include:
Reparative efforts rebuild trust faster than silence or defensiveness. Even when you don't agree with someone's perspective, validating their feelings can help repair connection.
Practice Exercise:
Try a 10-minute weekly check-in with your partner or a close friend. Discuss three things: (1) What went well in our relationship this week? (2) What was one difficulty? (3) What is one request for support?
Communication Challenges and Solutions
Common communication problems and how to address them:
| Challenge | Description | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Defensiveness | Reacting to feedback with justification or counter-attack | Listen fully before responding. Try to understand the concern behind the criticism. |
| Stonewalling | Withdrawing from conversation or giving silent treatment | Take a brief timeout if overwhelmed, but commit to returning to the conversation. |
| Criticism | Attacking character rather than addressing specific behavior | Use gentle start-ups and focus on specific actions, not personality traits. |
| Contempt | Expressing disrespect through sarcasm, eye-rolling, or mockery | Practice appreciating positive qualities and expressing needs respectfully. |
Digital Communication Skills
With so much communication happening online, developing digital communication skills is essential:
Avoid Assumptions
Without tone and body language, texts can be easily misinterpreted. When in doubt, clarify.
Respect Response Times
Not everyone can or should respond immediately. Avoid demanding instant replies.
Think Before Posting
Consider how your words might affect others before sharing on social media.
Handle Disagreements Privately
Address conflicts through private messages rather than public comments.
Healthy digital communication maintains the same respect, clarity, and boundary-awareness as in-person interactions.
Setting and Respecting Boundaries
Boundaries are statements about what you are comfortable with and what you are not. They can be physical, emotional, digital, or financial. Healthy boundaries protect personal wellbeing and promote mutual respect.
Types of Boundaries
Understanding different types of boundaries helps you identify where you might need to set clearer limits:
Physical Boundaries
Who can touch you and how. This includes personal space, touch preferences, and physical privacy.
Emotional Boundaries
How much you share and how you are treated emotionally. Protecting your emotional energy and not taking responsibility for others' feelings.
Digital Boundaries
What you post, who can tag you, and how private information is handled online.
Time & Energy Boundaries
How much time you spend together versus alone, and how you allocate your energy across relationships and responsibilities.
Material Boundaries
What you're comfortable sharing or lending, and expectations around money and possessions.
Intellectual Boundaries
Respecting others' thoughts, ideas, and opinions, even when they differ from your own.
How to Set a Boundary
Setting boundaries is a skill that becomes easier with practice. Here's a simple formula:
Get clear on what you're comfortable with and what crosses a line for you.
Use a short, clear sentence and, if needed, a brief reason: "I don't want to talk about my ex today." "Please don't check my messages — I value privacy."
Reinforce your boundary if it's tested. Avoid over-explaining; a calm, consistent boundary is easier to respect.
Understand that not everyone will respond positively to your boundaries, but your wellbeing is worth protecting them.
Responding to Boundary Violations
If someone crosses a boundary, here's how to respond effectively:
If boundary violations continue despite your clear communication, consider whether ongoing contact with this person is healthy for you.
Important Tip:
Boundaries often change as relationships and circumstances evolve. Revisit them respectfully as needed. Regular check-ins about boundaries can strengthen relationships by ensuring everyone's comfort and needs are considered.
Common Boundary Challenges
Many people struggle with setting boundaries for various reasons:
| Challenge | Description | Strategy |
|---|---|---|
| Fear of Conflict | Worrying that setting boundaries will create arguments or tension | Remember that clear boundaries often prevent bigger conflicts later |
| Guilt | Feeling selfish or wrong for prioritizing your needs | Recognize that self-care enables you to show up better for others |
| People-Pleasing | Habit of prioritizing others' comfort over your own wellbeing | Practice small boundary-setting exercises to build confidence |
| Cultural Expectations | Cultural norms that emphasize self-sacrifice or deference to others | Find culturally respectful ways to express your needs and limits |
Boundaries in Different Relationship Contexts
Boundaries may look different depending on the relationship:
Examples: "I appreciate your concern, but I'll make my own decisions about my career." "I need to leave family gatherings by 9 PM to maintain my sleep schedule."
Examples: "I'm not available for last-minute plans during work hours." "I'd prefer if you didn't share that story with others."
Examples: "I need some alone time to recharge after work." "I'm not comfortable with you going through my phone without asking."
Examples: "I don't check emails after 6 PM." "I'm not comfortable discussing my personal life at work."
Remember that healthy boundaries benefit both parties by creating clarity, reducing resentment, and fostering mutual respect.
Healthy vs Unhealthy Relationships
Recognising the difference between healthy and unhealthy dynamics helps you make safer choices. Healthy relationships promote growth; unhealthy ones cause stress, fear, and isolation.
Healthy Relationship Traits
Mutual Respect and Kindness
Valuing each other as individuals with inherent worth, speaking kindly even during disagreements
Honest Communication
Sharing thoughts and feelings openly while being considerate of each other's perspectives
Support for Individual Goals
Encouraging each other's personal growth, friendships, and interests outside the relationship
Equal Decision-Making
Sharing power and making important decisions together as equals
Freedom and Independence
Maintaining separate identities, friendships, and activities while enjoying time together
Warning Signs of Unhealthy Relationships
Excessive Jealousy or Possessiveness
Questioning your interactions with others, accusing you of inappropriate behavior without cause
Isolation from Friends/Family
Discouraging or preventing you from spending time with loved ones or participating in activities you enjoy
Monitoring or Controlling Behavior
Demanding passwords, tracking your location, controlling your finances or daily activities
Pressuring for Sexual Activity or Secrecy
Guilting or coercing you into sexual acts or insisting you keep aspects of the relationship secret
Insults, Humiliation, or Physical Harm
Name-calling, put-downs, threats, or any form of physical violence including pushing, hitting, or restraining
The Relationship Spectrum
Relationships exist on a spectrum from healthy to abusive, with many falling somewhere in between:
| Healthy | Concerning | Unhealthy | Abusive |
|---|---|---|---|
| Respecting boundaries | Occasionally crossing boundaries but apologizing | Regularly ignoring stated boundaries | Intentionally violating boundaries as control |
| Supporting independence | Mild discomfort with separate activities | Expressing jealousy about time with others | Forbidding contact with friends/family |
| Resolving conflicts respectfully | Occasional yelling but making repairs | Frequent arguments with name-calling | Using threats, intimidation, or violence |
| Shared decision-making | Occasionally making unilateral decisions | Regularly making decisions without consultation | Controlling all aspects of partner's life |
If You Are Concerned About Your Relationship
If you recognize unhealthy patterns in your relationship, consider these steps:
Be honest with yourself about concerning behaviors, even if you love the person. Denial prolongs harm.
Talk to a trusted friend, family member, or counselor who can offer objective insight.
If you feel unsafe, identify a trusted contact, keep copies of important documents, and know local emergency numbers.
Professional services and NGOs can help with counseling, shelter, legal advice, and safety planning.
Depending on the situation, options might include couples counseling, setting firmer boundaries, or ending the relationship.
Important:
If you are in immediate danger, contact local emergency services. In India, women can dial 112 for emergency assistance, or 181 for women's helpline in many states.
Supporting Someone in an Unhealthy Relationship
If you're concerned about a friend or family member:
Avoid ultimatums or pressure, which can isolate the person further. Your consistent, non-judgmental support is most valuable.
Gender, Identity & Inclusion
Understanding gender identity and sexual orientation fosters inclusive communities. Everyone deserves respect, chosen names and pronouns, and access to care without discrimination.
Basic Definitions
Clear definitions help create shared understanding:
Gender Identity
One's internal sense of being male, female, both, neither, or another identity. This may or may not correspond with sex assigned at birth.
Sexual Orientation
Who someone is attracted to emotionally, romantically, or sexually. Examples include heterosexual, homosexual, bisexual, pansexual, asexual.
Sex Characteristics
Biological traits such as chromosomes, hormones and reproductive anatomy. Sometimes called "sex assigned at birth."
Transgender
People whose gender identity differs from the sex they were assigned at birth.
Cisgender
People whose gender identity aligns with the sex they were assigned at birth.
Non-Binary
People who don't identify exclusively as male or female. They may identify as both, neither, or another gender.
How to Be an Ally
Being an ally means actively supporting marginalized communities:
Use a person's chosen name and pronouns. If you make a mistake, apologize briefly and correct yourself.
Listen to LGBTQ+ people's experiences without assuming you understand. Offer support without centering your own feelings.
Speak up against bullying and misinformation respectfully. Use educational approaches when possible.
Advocate for inclusive policies and practices in families, schools, workplaces, and healthcare settings.
Take responsibility for learning about LGBTQ+ issues rather than expecting marginalized people to educate you.
Resources:
Local LGBTQ+ support groups and national helplines can provide culturally appropriate counselling and community support. In India, organizations like Naz Foundation, Humsafar Trust, and Sappho for Equality offer resources and support.
Common Questions About Gender and Sexuality
No, sexual orientation and gender identity are not choices. They are intrinsic aspects of a person's identity. Research suggests biological, genetic, and environmental factors contribute to sexual orientation and gender identity.
Some people's understanding of their gender identity may evolve over time as they learn more about themselves. This doesn't mean gender identity is a choice, but rather that self-discovery is a process for some individuals.
Sexual orientation is about who you're attracted to. Gender identity is about who you are. They are separate aspects of identity. For example, a transgender woman could be straight, lesbian, bisexual, or have any other sexual orientation.
Thank them for trusting you, affirm your support, ask what they need from you, and respect their privacy about who else knows. Avoid questions that are overly personal or focus on medical aspects of transition.
Creating Inclusive Environments
Inclusion benefits everyone by creating safer, more respectful communities:
Use Inclusive Language
Use "they" when unsure of pronouns, avoid gendered assumptions about relationships
Provide Gender-Neutral Facilities
Where possible, offer gender-neutral bathrooms and changing facilities
Challenge Gender Stereotypes
Avoid assumptions about interests, careers, or behaviors based on gender
Include Diverse Representations
In educational materials, include LGBTQ+ people and relationships
Creating truly inclusive spaces requires ongoing effort, education, and willingness to learn from mistakes. The goal is environments where everyone can bring their whole selves without fear of discrimination or harm.
Safe Sex, Contraception & Sexual Health
Sexual health includes prevention, testing, and informed choices about contraception. Condoms are the most accessible method that also reduces many STI risks; other methods (pills, IUDs, injectables) are available through health services.
Contraception Basics
Understanding contraceptive options helps people make informed decisions about their sexual health:
Condoms
Protect against many STIs and pregnancy when used correctly. Available without prescription.
Oral Contraceptives
Require prescription in many places and have varied side-effects. Must be taken consistently.
IUDs & Implants
Long-acting reversible options available via clinics. Highly effective for years.
Emergency Contraception
Use after unprotected sex; available at pharmacies—use promptly for best effectiveness.
STI Testing & Treatment
If you are sexually active, periodic testing is a responsible step toward maintaining sexual health:
Before beginning a new sexual relationship, if you have multiple partners, after unprotected sex, or if you experience symptoms.
Depending on the STI, testing may involve urine samples, blood tests, or swabs. Many STIs show no symptoms initially.
Clinics offer confidential testing. In many places, minors can access testing without parental consent.
Many STIs are curable with antibiotics; others are manageable with medication. Early treatment prevents complications.
Symptoms like unusual discharge, pain, sores or rashes merit urgent clinical review. Don't delay seeking care due to embarrassment—healthcare providers are trained to handle these concerns professionally.
Talking to Your Partner About Testing
Discussing sexual health with partners can feel awkward but is essential for mutual safety:
Honest conversations reduce risk and build trust in relationships. If a partner refuses testing or becomes defensive, consider whether this relationship supports your health and safety.
Important Tip:
If cost or privacy is a concern, look for local NGOs or government clinics offering adolescent-friendly services. Many provide free or low-cost testing and contraception.
Navigating Consent in Sexual Relationships
Consent is especially important in sexual contexts. Remember these key principles:
Ongoing Consent
Consent isn't a one-time permission. Check in throughout sexual activity.
Enthusiastic Participation
Look for active, enthusiastic participation rather than mere absence of "no."
Respect Withdrawal
If someone changes their mind, stop immediately without pressure or guilt.
Consider Power Dynamics
Be aware that age differences, authority positions, or dependency can affect ability to consent freely.
Healthy sexual relationships involve mutual pleasure, respect, and communication. They should leave both people feeling good about themselves and each other.
Porn Literacy & Media Influence
Online sexual content is widespread and often shapes expectations. Porn is entertainment—rarely educational—and it can create unrealistic pressure about bodies, consent, and performance. Porn literacy helps people separate fantasy from real-life intimacy.
Key Ideas to Teach About Pornography
Understanding these concepts helps develop critical thinking about sexual media:
Porn Is Performance
Porn actors perform scripted scenes; safe practices and communication are often absent. Real sex doesn't look like porn.
Unrealistic Bodies and Expectations
Porn features selective body types and creates unrealistic standards. Real bodies come in diverse shapes, sizes, and abilities.
Consent Is Often Missing
Porn frequently depicts behavior that would be non-consensual in real life. Real intimacy requires ongoing, enthusiastic consent.
Performance Pressure
Porn creates expectations about duration, activities, and responses that don't reflect most people's real sexual experiences.
How to Talk About Porn with Teens
Open, non-shaming conversations help young people develop healthy perspectives:
Stay calm, avoid shaming, and focus on consent and realistic expectations. The goal is education, not punishment.
Potential Impacts of Porn Consumption
While research is mixed, some potential concerns include:
| Potential Impact | Description | Mitigation Strategies |
|---|---|---|
| Unrealistic Expectations | Believing real sex should mirror porn performances | Education about realistic sexual relationships and diverse experiences |
| Body Image Issues | Comparing oneself to selectively chosen performers | Promoting body positivity and media literacy |
| Confusion About Consent | Normalizing non-consensual behavior depicted in some porn | Explicit education about consent and boundaries |
| Addiction Concerns | Compulsive consumption interfering with daily life | Education about healthy media habits and seeking support if needed |
It's important to note that not everyone who views porn experiences negative effects, and many people consume porn without it significantly impacting their relationships or self-image. The key is developing critical thinking skills.
Healthy Alternatives to Porn for Sexual Education
For those seeking accurate information about sexuality:
Comprehensive Sex Education
School-based programs that cover consent, communication, and relationships
Evidence-Based Books and Websites
Resources from reputable health organizations and sexuality educators
Open Conversations
Discussions with trusted adults, healthcare providers, or counselors
Ethical Sex-Positive Content
Some creators produce educational content that depicts consensual, realistic sexuality
The goal isn't necessarily to eliminate porn consumption but to ensure people have the critical thinking skills to contextualize what they see and access to accurate information about sexuality.
Digital Safety & Sexting
Digital life is part of modern relationships. Protect privacy, avoid risky sharing, and know how to respond to threats like non-consensual image sharing.
Practical Digital Safety Rules
These guidelines help maintain safety and respect in digital spaces:
Once an image is out, you may lose control over it. Consider whether you'd be comfortable if the content was seen by unintended audiences.
Never pressure someone to send intimate content. Respect "no" immediately and without argument.
Use strong, unique passwords and two-factor authentication for accounts. Regularly update privacy settings.
Set social media profiles to private if you prefer control over who sees posts. Be selective about what you share publicly.
Consider disabling location services on apps that don't need them. Be cautious about sharing your real-time location.
If Images Are Shared Without Consent
Non-consensual image sharing is a serious violation. If it happens to you:
Take screenshots with timestamps, save URLs, and document all instances of unauthorized sharing.
Report the content to the platform using their reporting tools. Most platforms have policies against non-consensual intimate imagery.
Contact local cyber-crime units or helplines for advice. In many places, non-consensual sharing is illegal.
Non-consensual sharing is a serious violation. Seek support from trusted friends, family, or counseling services.
Important Legal Note:
For minors, creating, sharing, or possessing sexual images may have legal implications—even if consensual. Seek immediate adult support and legal guidance if involved in such situations.
Healthy Digital Relationship Practices
Maintain healthy boundaries and communication in digital spaces:
Respect Response Times
Understand that not everyone can or should respond immediately to messages.
Maintain Privacy Boundaries
Don't share private information about your relationship without mutual agreement.
Address Conflicts Directly
Have important conversations in person or via voice/video call rather than text.
Balance Digital and In-Person Connection
Ensure digital communication complements rather than replaces face-to-face interaction.
Sexting: Considerations and Guidelines
If considering sexting (sending sexually explicit messages or images):
Even with trusted partners, images can be leaked through hacking, device loss, or relationship changes.
Only consider sexting in relationships with established trust and clear agreements about privacy.
If sharing images, avoid showing faces, tattoos, or distinctive backgrounds that could identify you.
In many places, creating or sharing sexual images of minors (even self-produced) may violate child pornography laws.
Remember that you always have the right to decline requests for intimate images, regardless of your relationship status or previous sharing.
Real-life Scenarios & Scripts
Practical scripts help you practice hard conversations so they feel natural in the moment. Below are short examples you can adapt to various situations.
Script: Saying No to Physical Intimacy
Alternative approaches: "I'm enjoying what we're doing, but I'd like to keep things at this level for now." "I need to take things slower than this."
Script: Asking for Consent
Alternative approaches: "I'd really like to kiss you—would that be okay?" "How are you feeling about physical closeness right now?"
Script: Declining to Share Photos
Alternative approaches: "I'm not comfortable sending photos, but I'm happy to [suggest alternative]." "That's not something I do, but I appreciate you asking rather than pressuring."
Scenario: Peer Pressure at a Party
You're at a party and friends are pressuring you to drink more than you're comfortable with or engage in sexual activity.
- Move to a safe area away from the pressure
- Call a trusted friend or family member for support
- Use a code word with a friend to signal you need help leaving
- Have a prepared excuse: "I have to be up early tomorrow" or "I'm not feeling well"
- Trust your instincts—if something feels wrong, it probably is
Scenario: Addressing Uncomfortable Comments
Someone repeatedly makes comments about your body that make you uncomfortable.
Scenario: Setting Boundaries with Family
Family members frequently ask intrusive questions about your relationship status or life choices.
Scenario: Responding to Digital Boundary Crossings
Someone repeatedly messages you late at night or demands immediate responses.
Practice Tip:
Role-play these scenarios with a friend or practice saying the scripts aloud when alone. The more familiar they feel, the more naturally they'll come to you in real situations.
Resources & Help (India-focused)
If you or someone you know needs immediate assistance, contact local emergency services. For non-emergency support, use the following types of resources:
Public Health Clinics
Offer STI testing, contraception, and basic counseling services. Often provide sliding scale fees.
School and College Counselors
Provide confidential student support and referrals to specialized services.
NGOs and Helplines
Many organizations provide support for sexual assault, domestic violence, and adolescent counseling.
Online Counseling Services
Digital platforms offering remote counseling with trained professionals.
How to Find Help
Search for "adolescent health clinic near me," contact local hospitals, or ask school staff for referrals. Keep a list of trusted contacts and emergency numbers in your phone.
Specific Indian Resources
| Service Type | Organization/Helpline | Contact Information |
|---|---|---|
| Women's Helpline | National Commission for Women | Dial 112 (emergency) or 181 (women's helpline in many states) |
| Child Protection | Childline India Foundation | Dial 1098 (24/7 helpline for children in need of care and protection) |
| Mental Health Support | iCall / Vandrevala Foundation | iCall: 9152987821; Vandrevala: 18602662345 / 9999666555 |
| LGBTQ+ Support | Naz Foundation / Humsafar Trust | Check their websites for current helpline numbers and services |
| Legal Aid | National Legal Services Authority | Visit their website for state-specific legal aid contacts |
Important Note:
Helpline numbers and organizations change — check official government or NGO sites for the latest contacts in your state or city. Services may vary by region.
Creating a Personal Safety Plan
If you're in an unsafe relationship, consider developing a safety plan:
Have 2-3 trusted people you can contact in an emergency. Share your situation with them.
Keep copies of identification, financial records, and important documents in a safe place.
Identify safe places you can go if you need to leave quickly. Keep a bag with essentials if possible.
Clear browser history if researching help options. Use a friend's phone if yours is monitored.
Program emergency numbers into your phone. Know the location of nearby police stations or hospitals.
Local domestic violence shelters or helplines can help you create a personalized safety plan based on your specific situation.
Frequently Asked Questions
A: The legal age of consent for sexual activity in India is 18 years. This means that individuals below 18 cannot legally consent to sexual activity, and sexual contact with minors may be considered statutory rape regardless of consent. Laws vary and age-of-consent and related statutes are specific. For legal advice about age or statutory questions, consult a qualified legal professional. If you are under distress or danger, seek immediate support from local authorities or helplines.
A: Yes — many clinics and NGOs offer confidential counseling and testing to adolescents. In India, the Adolescent Friendly Health Clinics (AFHCs) under the Rashtriya Kishor Swasthya Karyakram (RKSK) program provide confidential services. Ask for "confidential" or "adolescent-friendly" services when you call or visit. Healthcare providers are trained to respect your privacy while providing appropriate care.
A: Listen without judgment, believe their experience, help them make a safety plan, and connect them to professional help. Don't pressure them to take specific actions; support their choices and safety. Useful phrases include: "I believe you," "This wasn't your fault," and "How can I support you right now?" Encourage them to contact helplines or support services, but respect their pace in seeking help.
A: Curiosity about sexuality, including porn, is normal, especially during adolescence when sexual development occurs. Use non-judgmental conversations to explain that porn is entertainment and not a realistic guide to relationships or consent. Recommend trusted educational resources instead. If porn consumption becomes compulsive or interferes with daily life, it may be helpful to speak with a counselor or trusted adult.
A: You have the right to decide when and if you want to be in a relationship. If you're feeling pressured, clearly state your boundaries: "I'm not ready for a relationship right now," or "I prefer to just be friends." If the pressure continues, limit contact with that person and seek support from trusted friends or adults. Remember that healthy relationships involve mutual interest, not pressure or coercion.
A: Signs of an unhealthy relationship include: feeling afraid, controlled, constantly criticized, isolated from friends and family, pressured into sexual activity, or having your boundaries repeatedly disrespected. Trust your instincts—if something consistently feels wrong in your relationship, it likely is. Speak with a trusted adult or counselor who can help you assess your situation objectively.
A: Questioning your gender identity or sexual orientation is a normal part of self-discovery for many people. There's no rush to define yourself—exploration is okay. Seek out accurate information from reliable sources and consider connecting with LGBTQ+ support organizations that can provide resources and community. Speaking with a counselor who has experience with gender and sexuality can also be helpful.
Action Checklists
Checklist for Young People (Safety Basics)
Understanding anatomical terms helps you communicate clearly about health concerns.
Regular practice makes these conversations feel more natural over time.
Once shared, you lose control over where images might end up.
Regular STI testing protects your health and your partners' health.
Don't keep concerns about relationships to yourself—support is available.
Checklist for Parents and Educators
Don't wait for "the big talk"—incorporate these topics into regular conversations.
Children learn relationship skills by observing the adults in their lives.
Ensure young people have access to accurate, evidence-based information.
Make sure young people know who to approach with concerns and feel safe doing so.
Continually educate yourself about consent, relationships, and diverse identities.
Checklist for Digital Safety
Protect your accounts from unauthorized access.
Regularly check that your sharing settings match your comfort level.
Protect yourself from scams and inappropriate content.
Digital content can have unexpected longevity and reach.
Don't pressure for immediate responses or oversharing.
Closing Thoughts & Next Steps
Healthy relationships are built through ongoing practice: asking clearly, listening actively, setting boundaries and taking responsibility for repair. Use the scripts and checklists on this page to practice conversations, prepare classrooms, or support young people. If you'd like printable lesson plans, teacher guides, or a short workshop for your school or NGO, visit our Resources page
Remember: Clear language, respect for autonomy, and a willingness to learn are the simplest and most effective tools for safety and wellbeing.
Your Next Steps:
- Bookmark this page for future reference
- Share one concept from this guide with someone this week
- Practice one communication skill or boundary-setting technique
- Save important helpline numbers in your phone
- Continue your learning through our other educational resources
Building healthy relationships is a journey, not a destination. Each small step toward better communication, clearer boundaries, and more respectful interactions contributes to your wellbeing and the health of your communities.