The lockdown period for this pandemic has affected various aspects of people’s lives. And people in relationships have felt some change due to the pandemic. For example, dating during COVID-19 is more challenging since people have to rely on the online environment.
However, it’s not all bad — some people in a relationship have become even closer because of the pandemic. Conversely, some couples find it difficult to spend so much time together.
There are different challenges concerning coronavirus and relationships to overcome, and couples need to work jointly to succeed. Thus, we’ve offered some guidelines that will help you strengthen your relationship during this pandemic period.
But let’s first look at some of the problems partners living together are facing during the COVID-19 pandemic.
What Are the Challenges One Can Face Living with a Partner During the Pandemic?
Living with a partner during the pandemic has its benefits, such as being there to support each other. However, it also presents some problems, and here are some of them:
Too Much Together Time
Relationships during coronavirus have had to evolve because some couples are now together 24/7. There is no room to miss your partner since you are with them all the time.
Being with your loved one is great, but sometimes people need some alone time for their hobbies or to just rest emotionally. Some people are even trying to create some alone time by having different workout schedules.
Boredom
Before the COVID-19 pandemic, there were lots of activities that people in a relationship would partake. There was traveling, seeing new sights, and even meeting new people. Now, we cannot go on the exciting dates we used to.
And there are fewer options on how to spend a day together. As a result, couples try to find activities or hobbies to do while at home and beat the boredom.
Mental Health Challenges
The pandemic has impacted people’s mental health. Many are dealing with anxiety and feelings of uncertainty about the future, and it is affecting their relationships. Others are battling with depression during this period because the pandemic drastically has changed their lives.
Trying online therapy becomes a solution to consider. You get help to make it easier to go through these tough times.
Financial Distress
The pandemic has affected the economy as a whole. Many people have lost their jobs or are experiencing salary cuts because of the lockdown. The struggle to pay bills and other financial issues affect couples. They worry about the future.
Disagreement Over Safety Issues
Taking precautions to prevent contracting the virus is among the most important things during this pandemic period. Couples will disagree on various safety measures because of coronavirus anxiety. For example, people can argue about inviting some friends over.
10 Tips for Keeping Your Relationship Healthy During the Pandemic
Maintaining a relationship, especially during the pandemic, has its challenges. But partners find some positives regarding the current situation, such as spending more time together.
However, couples have to find ways to maintain their bond. Here are some tips on how to keep a relationship healthy.
Practice Self-Care
The rule is, you cannot take care of others if you can’t take care of yourself. You should not expect your partner to be your only stress-reliever during this pandemic time. Find ways to cope with your stress and keep yourself grounded.
- Daily meditation
- Keeping a journal
- Reaching out to friends
- Exercising
- Validating your feelings
- Practicing healthy eating
- Relaxation
Respect Each Other’s Space and Time
Even during this pandemic, everyone still needs some personal space. It is when you get to focus on individual interests. Create a healthy balance between your “alone time” and “together time.” Do it by setting healthy boundaries.
Go Outside Together
Many relationships during COVID-19 are suffering because of having to stay indoors. Staying home is the message that the government has been passing to the citizens since the pandemic began. However, it does not mean that couples should stay cooped up in their houses all the time.
Find some time to go out with your partner while observing safety measures. It can be for a quick walk around the neighborhood, going shopping, exercising outdoors, etc.
Going outdoors reduces stress caused by the pandemic and strengthens your connection.
Communicate Your Feelings
It is okay to feel frustrated and even angry sometimes, but you need to communicate with your partner. Talking about your feelings makes them understand you even more.
Remember that your loved one might be experiencing a similar range of emotions during this pandemic time, and thus communication will help you both.
Practice Gratitude and Appreciating Your Partner
One way to keep a relationship strong is by appreciating the little things. For example, if your partner brings you coffee while working, appreciate the gesture. Thank them for making an effort during these difficult times.
A simple thanks and a smile goes a long way. The more you express gratitude, the more you notice the little moments you need to appreciate.
Keep Your Kids Occupied
Kids staying at home because of the pandemic brings a whole new meaning to family togetherness. Children require attention, which can be distracting when both parents have to work from their home. Sometimes working and attending virtual meetings might even be impossible.
As a couple, allocate time for each partner to keep the kids occupied to allow the other to focus. It could be anywhere from a few hours to full days. Plan together and find the ways that work.
Plan Date Nights
The pandemic should not be the reason for not keeping the romance part of their relationships up. Many relationships during COVID-19 are struggling because partners are neglecting this part of their couplehood.
Plan date nights to look forward to. Cook a special meal together, dress up, and have a romantic evening. You can even read to each other, dance, or watch a movie.
Plan Something Fun
Plan fun things to do, like a movie or game nights. Organize game nights with your friends virtually and have fun evenings. You can also plan virtual meetings with them.
Furthermore, you can choose to make a fun purchase as a couple, buying something new you will both enjoy.
Work on Your Sex Life
Relationships during coronavirus have adapted differently in terms of sex. Some couples have more sex because they are spending more time together, while others are less intimate because of the stress over the pandemic.
Either way, people in a relationship should work on their intimate life and emotional problems that may occur. Talk with your partner about possible problems and find ways to maintain a healthy sex life even during this period.
Try New Things
Find new things to try with your partner to keep yourselves occupied during the coronavirus anxiety. For example, you can take a virtual cooking class, virtual dancing lessons, and other fun activities as a couple.
The above examples provide good distractions and reduce stress levels.
Know When to Seek Help
No relationship is perfect. You can manage some challenges together, but sometimes you might require the support of a licensed therapist. For example, online therapists from Calmerry can help work out your emotional issues, improve your relationships, and deal with any coronavirus-related mental health concerns.