Love amid other drugs: Surviving a long-distance relationship
The world is grappling with the widespread consequences of the novel coronavirus, and couples in long-distance relationships are not spared, either. As relationships face this litmus test, mental health and relationship experts chalk out some fundamentals to keep the tension low and romance high.
Bengaluru-based psychiatrist Dr Venkatesh Babu GM says that in order to have a healthy long-distance relationship, it is necessary to resolve issues at the earliest. “Lack of communication, unresolved fights and blame games are not healthy. By putting in efforts, regular chats can actually turn out to be a much needed date,” he says.
With time on your hands, the grim situation offers a chance to look deeper into behavioural patterns. “Use this time to introspect. You have time to analyse if all those fights and arguments are worth it. Don’t propagate negative thoughts or pay heed to rumours. Uplift each other, keep a positive attitude, and don’t lose patience,” says psychologist Dr Anil Sethi.
Relationship expert Shivani Sadhu opines that the first step towards any remedial action is to accept the situation. “Fear is one of the major triggers for a relationship failing. Avoid setting any rules and go with the flow,” she advises, adding that flexibility is key.
“Adapt and improvise. Make video calls fun by making dinner together or watching a movie together. It’s never late to flirt and act like newbies. Chat like you are chatting with a stranger and flirt with each other,” she suggests.