7 ways a strong relationship can boost your health

It’s often the small things your partner does—shutting the blinds while you’re napping, packing your favorite snacks—that make a relationship meaningful. But as it turns out, a loving partnership may provide big long-term benefits as well. It may even add years to your life.

Lonnie Barbach, PhD, a couple's therapist in private practice in Mill Valley, California, explains how a strong partnership could influence your health. Barbach is the co-author of Going the Distance: Finding and Keeping Lifelong Love, written with her partner, David Geisinger, PhD, and co-founder of the Happy Couple game app.

Here are some surprising benefits of a supportive long-term relationship (LTR)—plus tips for keeping yours healthy.