For over a year, we’ve lived with the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. Most of us have spent more time at home than ever. We’ve socially distanced, quarantined, and worn masks. Many have now received the vaccine.
All those reasons are exactly why we’re now looking toward a post-pandemic world, and a new normal.
Everything changed when the pandemic began. For many people, that included spending more time at home with their partner. Some days, you might have felt closer than ever. Other times, you may have been more annoyed than ever!
But, just as you were finally finding your footing, things changed again. Now that the world is once again opening up, how will it affect your relationship? What can you expect from spending time apart again?
More importantly, how might your own feelings and struggles impact your relationship as you go forward?
Getting Used to a New Schedule
The pandemic affected everyone’s lives differently. For many people, that included either losing their job or having to switch to remote work. If you or your partner faced one of those changes, you might have to deal with another one now that the world is opening up.
One (or both) of you might be looking for a new job. Or, maybe one person will continue to work remotely while the other goes back in person.
Whatever the case, you may have to get used to a new schedule after months of spending a lot of time together. So, don’t be surprised if you start to feel a bit stressed and distanced.
The reality is, a little space is a good thing in a relationship—especially when you’ve been cooped up together for so long. It can end up making you stronger, as a couple. But, you might have to start making more of an active effort to dedicate time to your relationship.
If you’re both busy with work, school, or other projects, make time for each other. Schedule date nights once a week. Or dedicate a certain block of time every morning/night to focus on each other. Talk about your days and whatever you might be feeling without letting distractions get in the way.
Dealing With Internal Struggles
We’re only just starting to see the real impact the pandemic had on mental health. But there’s no denying that it has caused an increase in anxiety, depression, stress, and loneliness.
Maybe you lost someone due to the virus. Or, you might just be grieving your “old” way of life. The entire situation was traumatic for so many people, and you shouldn’t be expected to just “get over it” because things are reopening again.
If you’re dealing with any lingering struggles, they can impact your relationship in a post-pandemic world. For example, if you’re struggling with depression, you might not want to do things with your partner that you used to. If they’re dealing with anxiety, the symptoms of fear can be so crippling that you may not know how to help.
The best thing you can do in those situations is to seek help.
If you or your partner are struggling with your mental health, talking to a therapist or counselor can help. Not only will you learn how to cope with those issues, but once you know how to take care of yourself, you can start to put more focus on taking care of your relationship again.
The post-pandemic life can impact your relationship in many ways. From finances to scheduling changes and form free time to your feelings, there’s a lot to navigate in this “new normal”. Feel free to contact me if you’re struggling with any of it. Together, we can work through those problems and help to get your relationship back where you want it to be.
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