As we enter the new year, we are once again faced with the toughest Coronavirus restrictions. For couples, this means an extreme decision of either staying away from their other half or being with them 24/7.
This is a familiar decision for most after the lockdown in March last year. By deciding to make your relationship long distance for a month or taking the next step to move in together, both can have consequences on the relationship you are in. A study conducted during the first lockdown by the relationship charity ‘Relate’ found that out of 2,058 UK adults, many have experienced relationship difficulties during lockdown.
Throughout the pandemic, a lot of people have struggled with their mental health. A big factor has been the tough government rules put in place to stop the spread of the virus. This has meant many people having to isolate away from loved ones, resulting in people feeling lonelier. This can then lead people down a path of anxiety and depression which can put strain on a relationship and can potentially cause problems. I’m sure many of us can say we have had down days over the past year. The negativity Covid-19 has brought into our lives has caused arguments, break-ups, and even divorces.
However, it can also test the strength of your relationship and can instead have a positive impact on you both which is crucial during these tough times we are living in. Spending the quality time together may help your relationship grow and progress. The same study showed that one in ten respondents across all age groups said that lockdown has helped them to realise they want to propose to their partner.
Me and my partner had only been together 3 months when the first lockdown was announced and with our relationship being so new, we decided it was best to spend the time apart. This meant many phone calls, movie nights via facetime, and sending cards to one another. This time around is a whole different experience for me. After being together for a year, we have decided to do what we think is right for our relationship and live together throughout January and until the UK announces we are no longer in lockdown.
This is a decision no couple should have to face but many had no choice. I spoke to some women who have had to make the difficult decision with their partner going into the January lockdown.
Shannon Condron, who is temporarily living with her partner said, “I couldn’t be without him, it has brought us closer together and helped us connect quicker.”
Shannon added, “Living with him has helped my mental health as having someone to talk to and have fun with is very needed during these times.”
I also spoke to Emma Paterson, who is spending lockdown apart from her boyfriend. She said, “Despite being together for about a year, we still feel in the early stages of our relationship. We are both frustrated but try to stay positive as we know better days are coming. Progression in our relationship is limited, which puts a lot of pressure on us for when things are normal again.”
When discussing how the distance emotionally affects Emma she said, “It is hard to see couples together and can put my mood down, especially when he’s my biggest support system during these times. Helplessness has been a big emotion for me as I can’t be there for him like I want to be and vice versa.”
It is clear to see that the next month is going to be a struggle for a lot of people. Some relationships are reaching breaking point with yet another lockdown. While others are blossoming into something really special. With no end in sight for the coronavirus pandemic, couples remain anxious on what the future holds for them.
Codie Bullen
Featured image courtesy of Oziel Gomez via Unsplash. This image has in no way been altered. Image license available here.