There is a lot of relationship advice online.
Some of it is helpful, honest, and supportive.
Some of it is unsafe, controlling, or completely wrong.
It can be hard to know what to trust.
If you ever feel unsure, it’s important to check with someone you trust.
Not all online advice is healthy #
Some online posts or videos can look like “relationship tips” but actually encourage:
- Checking someone’s phone
- Tracking their location
- Controlling who they talk to
- Testing your partner
- Playing mind games
- Making someone feel guilty or scared
These behaviours are not signs of love.
They are signs of control.
Healthy relationships don’t rely on spying or pressure.
How to spot healthy information #
Good relationship advice usually encourages:
- Respect
- Consent
- Kindness
- Boundaries
- Communication
- Trust
- Safety for everyone
If the advice makes you feel calm, supported, and respected, it’s more likely to be healthy.
How to spot unhealthy information #
Advice may be unsafe if it:
- Encourages control
- Tells you to check someone’s phone or messages
- Says jealousy is “proof of love”
- Makes you ignore your own boundaries
- Says someone “owes” you attention or affection
- Makes you feel scared or pressured
If something feels off, trust that feeling.
What to do if you’re unsure #
If you aren’t sure whether the advice you found is good or harmful, don’t rely on it.
Instead, talk to a safe adult such as:
- A parent or carer
- A teacher or safeguarding lead
- A youth worker
- A school counsellor
- A trusted family member
They can help you understand what’s healthy and what isn’t.
You can also double-check advice by looking at trusted organisations that support young people’s wellbeing and relationships.
Why trusted adults are important #
Safe adults can:
- Listen without judgement
- Help you make sense of confusing information
- Explain what healthy relationships look like
- Support you if something feels wrong
- Give guidance based on experience, not pressure
You do not have to figure all of this out on your own.
Key things to remember #
- Not all relationship advice online is healthy
- Healthy advice supports trust, consent, and respect
- Unhealthy advice often involves control or pressure
- If you’re unsure, talk to a safe adult
- You deserve support that protects your wellbeing
Getting the right information helps you build safe, respectful, and healthy relationships.
