Research has shown that cancer and heart patients, as well as the general population, who have good supportive relationships have lower death rates than those who do not. Being able to get along with others makes you happier and contributes to a positive cycle of improved self-esteem and self-worth. Good relationship skills may be especially important for parents. Being able to relate to your children in a positive way, from their earliest moments in life all the way through those more challenging years, creates actual chemical changes in their systems that make them more resilient to stress and more likely to be healthier, happier adults.