Many of us have experienced the joys and challenges of long-distance relationships. While distance can make the heart grow fonder, it can also make us feel lonely and disconnected from our partners.
Being in a long-distance relationship myself, I have come to learn quite a few things when it comes to dealing with loneliness because it is just that common.
In this article, I will give some tips I have learned throughout the years, so you don’t have to go through the same.
Is it ok to feel lonely in a long-distance relationship?
Feeling lonely in a long-distance relationship is common and normal. It’s natural to miss your partner and the physical intimacy that comes with being in the same place. It’s also normal to feel sad, anxious, or even frustrated at times when you can’t have your partner close to you. This is not something to be ashamed of or to try to hide.
Every long-distance relationship is different, and the level of loneliness that we experience will vary from person to person. It’s important to remember that feeling lonely doesn’t mean that the relationship is doomed to fail or that our love for our partner is any less strong.
It simply means that we miss them and wish they were here with us. Acknowledging and accepting our feelings of loneliness can actually help us to cope with them better and to find ways to stay connected with our partner despite the distance.
Don’t push away something that’s natural to us all. Rather, accept that feeling of loneliness, harness it, and learn to love it. You might even uncover new aspects of yourself by having gone through that process in your life.
How to overcome loneliness in a long-distance relationship
Here are some tips on ways you can overcome loneliness in a long-distance relationship.
Do things together with your partner even when you are apart
Just because you’re not physically together doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy each other’s company. Finding ways to spend quality time together can help keep the spark alive in your long-distance relationship.
Look for activities that you both enjoy and that you can do from afar, such as watching a movie at the same time and discussing it afterward, or cooking the same recipe together over a video call. You could also read the same book at the same time, play online games together, or even do the same crosswords online or on paper. The choices are endless.
Sharing experiences, even if they are virtual, can help create a sense of intimacy and connection, and bring a sense of togetherness to your long-distance relationship.
Communicate with your partner regularly
Communication is the foundation of any successful relationship. Make sure to schedule regular check-ins with your partner and set aside dedicated time for meaningful conversations. This can be either through texts, video calls, or video chats.
Be open and honest with each other about your feelings and concerns, and make sure to actively listen to one another.
Keep yourself occupied
Even though some might say that keeping yourself occupied only acts as a short-term distraction, I have found that not only does it keep me distracted, but those activities bring me happiness and fulfillment which lasts long term.
It’s easy to get lost in feelings of loneliness when you’re alone but keeping yourself busy and engaged can help combat those feelings. Whether it’s working on a creative project or trying out a new workout routine, staying active and engaged in your own life can help you feel more fulfilled and confident.
This can also give you something to talk about with your partner and help you feel more connected.
Find new interests
With so much time away from your partner, use this time to try new things and to invest in your personal growth. This can either be learning a new language, taking up a new hobby, or even starting your own business.
By expanding your horizons and trying new things, you may find that you’re able to better cope with the challenges of distance, and in the end, feel much happier and less lonely.
Additionally, not only will you have a new source of conversation and connection with your partner, but you’ll also have something to look forward to and be proud of.
Reconnect with friends
When you’re in a long-distance relationship, it’s important to have a support system outside of your partner, as these connections can provide you with a sense of stability and community. Reach out to old friends, plan a weekend trip, or simply catch up over the phone.
Your friends will be happy to hear from you and you’ll feel more connected to those who care about you.
Join internet communities
Thanks to the internet, it’s easier than ever to connect with like-minded individuals, even if they’re across the globe. Joining online communities or forums can provide a sense of belonging and connection.
Joining online communities specifically designed for long-distance couples can be a great way to connect with others who truly understand your situation.
You could also join other communities, such as a fitness group or a book club. Finding others who share your interests can help combat that feeling of loneliness. Plus, you’ll have the opportunity to learn from others and possibly make new friends along the way.
Get a pet
If you’re someone who enjoys having a furry friend around, consider getting a pet. This can be either a cat, dog or even a fish. Not only can they provide companionship and unconditional love, but pets can also help alleviate feelings of loneliness, and provide a sense of responsibility. Just make sure you have the time, space, and resources to properly care for an animal.
Make plans
Making plans for the future can provide a much-needed sense of hope and excitement, different from the normal sense of distance. It is important to have a shared goal for the future of the relationship, including a timeline for when you may be able to be together in person.
Talk with your partner about your dreams and aspirations, and work together to make them a reality. Continuously discussing this topic can help maintain positivity and ensure that both parties are on the same page.
A word from Omihoop
Feeling lonely in a long-distance relationship is completely normal and valid. With time and effort, you will slowly find ways to deal with the loneliness. It’s important to horn into those that work specifically for you, as we all are different. When you do figure it out though, you will find that maintaining a strong and healthy relationship with your partner becomes easier even when you’re far apart.
