Handling long distance relationships at college

Handling long distance relationships at college is not always easy. This kind of situation can test the strength of the relationship you have with your partner and it is important the partnership is strong, emotionally secure and based on mutual trust and respect before you even consider the possibility of a long distance relationship.

This is something that requires both partners to be sure about what they want from the relationship. Relationships can be challenging enough without the added pressure of being distanced from each other so it is vital you are both committed to the relationship from the very beginning.

Make regular contact:

Thanks to mobile phones and internet technology, it is very easy to connect with loved ones and friends from all over the world. Sending a text or an email is probably one of the simplest things to do and it can help bridge the gap within a long distance relationship. It is a priority within a long distance relationship to take advantage of this medium as it can create a much needed connection with your partner and encourage consistent communication within the relationship.

Arrange to meet up whenever you can:

Sending emails and texts to your loved one is not a long term solution for establishing the security you both need within your relationship. You should both arrange to meet up whenever you can. It is very important to remember that it may not always be possible to meet up due to hectic work schedules and personal commitments you may have elsewhere.

If one partner says that he/she cannot meet up, respect that decision and refrain from suffocating your partner with demands that cannot be met at this time. Communication is vital at this point. If you do not have time to meet up, tell your partner you really love and miss them and that you cannot wait to see them again. He/she may feel slightly dejected and they will need emotional support from you to prevent insecurities from creeping into the relationship.

Holidays and Celebrations:

The holiday period is an ideal time to meet up with your partner and both of you should arrange to be together as much as possible especially if you have not found time during the college semester to meet up regularly.

It is important to meet up with your partner on special occasions such as a birthday celebration or similar event. This will show your partner that you value and appreciate what matters to them and this should help to strengthen the relationship.

Trust in the strength of your relationship:

If both partners have been together for a long period of time before entering into a long distance relationship at college, the much needed bonds of mutual trust and understanding will already be in place. This will help both partners to feel secure with each other before any external demands created by long distance puts pressure on the relationship. Insecure and emotionally needy behaviour from one partner can put a great deal of strain on a college relationship which could, eventually cause the relationship to break down irrevocably.

Copyright Christina McDonald 2009