RELATIONSHIP ADVICE
How to Deal With Separation Anxiety in Long-Distance Relationships
Long distance relationships are never easy. There will always be a plethora of challenges that can befall any couple along the way, which explains why so few are eager to go for it. Since it can be unavoidable for some, the best thing to do then would be to learn how to tackle these challenges.
One such challenge? How to deal with separation anxiety.
When people think of separation anxiety, most tend to associate it with children. However, the truth is that people of all ages go through it. For those in relationships, there are a few common signs of this. Should you or your partner display the following, then it is a safe bet that you may have separation anxiety:
- Overwhelming fear or panic when one person leaves
- Obsessive thoughts regarding something terrible taking place to the other person or to the relationship as a whole
- Needing constant reassurance from the other person
- Unnecessary jealousy over not being included in plans
Overcoming Separation Anxiety
Couples who are separated from one another for long periods of time are especially vulnerable to this type of anxiety. With so much at stake in relationships, here are some tips to cope with it:
Address How You Feel
There’s no running from how you feel, whether it is something positive or negative. The more aware you are of what your emotions are, the better you will be at dealing with them. Self-compassion is the key to dealing with some of the more difficult ones. Be kind and patient with yourself.
Set Healthy Boundaries
As much as you think receiving constant reassurance is helpful, it is actually just reinforcing your issues. Boundaries need to be set for both partners so that they can maintain their independence and function as a healthy but separated couple. That means not keeping tabs on the other person’s every move and providing space.
Exert Effort on Connecting
With that said, when the time comes to connect, there must be a concentrated effort from the couple. Communication is not optional and there must be scheduled chatting or calling at least once a day. It’s not the same as in-person communication, that’s for sure, but it’s the barest minimum of long distance relationship realities.
Place Importance on Self Care
It is always helpful to reconnect with one’s self. Practicing self-care is vital for both mental and physical health. Not only is maximizing your alone time healthy for an individual, but it can also keep the constant negative and anxious thoughts at bay, even for just a few hours at a time.
All of these things are necessary to help keep the difficulties of long-distance relationships at bay, but they are even more vital for those who are facing the challenge of separation anxiety. With all of the heightened emotions involved, it’s best to come prepared at every opportunity.
All in all, it’s best for all couples to learn how to deal with separation anxiety, regardless of whether it’s due to a long distance situation or otherwise.
