4 Tips to Navigate Relationship During Quarantine

We are over a month into social distancing, and most of us are confined to our homes in an effort to curb the spread of Covid-19. For those of us who have chosen to quarantine with our partners, this means facing an indefinite amount of time in close proximity with our significant other. It may feel like our relationships have been put under a magnifying glass and all of the ups and downs of this quarantine are being intensely felt and experienced alongside someone at all times. This experience has also stripped many relationships of buffers that usually exist such as work, socialization with others, and hobbies/interests that we do on a regular basis apart from our partners.

Few couples are used to the intensity of physical closeness brought about by the current situation and understandably many of us may be finding it difficult to adjust. I’d like to provide some ideas that might help your relationship keep some balance:

Prioritize “Me Time”- You can’t put your best foot forward in a relationship if your personal needs aren’t being met. Maintaining some form of separate time, even when you’re both at home, will help make space for you to decompress and connect with your own thoughts and feelings.

Communication is key- This is true always, but especially during this time. Taking the time to reflect on and then share your needs and feelings with your partner will ensure that things run as smoothly as possible.

Keep it positive- Arguments are inevitable, but it is important to keep in mind that there should be more positive interactions between you and your significant other than negative ones. You can do this by reminiscing about happy memories you’ve shared, teasing each other in a loving way, or creating stay at home date nights.

Know that it is OK to seek help- Even in the best relationships, these circumstances may be causing more turmoil than you can handle on your own. This may mean considering either individual or couples counseling via virtual therapy.

With that being said, I urge each of us to remember that there is nothing wrong with feeling overwhelmed, anxious, joyous, or relieved by our current living situations. These are uncharted waters for many of us and while we’re all navigating our “new normal”, it is important to remember that there will be good days and bad days; and that it is never too late to reroute, pivot, and improve upon our relationships with ourselves and others.

BY JESSICA N. MORALES, LPC

Helping you feel more calm and prepared during COVID-19

I can answer any questions, just email me at Jessica@app-5e99e187f911c8155c504f01.closte.com

Jessica N. Morales
Bilingual Therapist

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