Pandemic Effects on The Relationships

The COVID-19 pandemic has brought various couples closer; however, on the contrary, it has also had a negative impact on others. Washington DC has been in lockdown since April 2020, causing major issues within romantic relationships. This highly contagious respiratory virus has brought the entire world to a standstill. The government has ordered all non-essential businesses to close, forcing all to stay home. For months on end, Washington has been shut down, so it is questioned: how has this affected couples? 

Due to the fast spread of the coronavirus, people have been forced to stay away from loved ones who do not live in the same household. Couples living both together as well as apart are facing several difficulties they need to avoid. Living in the same household as your significant other puts a tremendous strain on some relationships. Take Kate Reed, for instance, she stated “My husband and I are arguing all the time because of this stressful situation of being together 24/7.” Kate is not the only one expressing frustration with the lack of independence. Countless couples living together are experiencing a roller coaster of emotions. The arguments that are occurring at home have escalated considering couples are not getting enough time apart from each other. This has resulted in numerous breakups along with divorces. Anne Williams was interviewed and explained her dire situation, “My husband and I went through a divorce a few months ago, this whole pandemic isn’t helping couples at all.” Not all romantic relationships have resulted in a negative outcome. “The pandemic had brought my family through many ups and downs, but overall, it has brought my family much closer together,” proclaimed James Miller. The lockdown is forcing people to slow down and enjoy each other’s company while they are unable to leave their homes. This has impacted people immensely, helping families and loved ones reunite. 

Partners living apart from one another are experiencing similar situations. The biggest trouble with couples who live separately from each other is not being able to be in contact with one another face to face. Those in romantic relationships, who do not live in the same home, are having to stay apart for months on end. This can be very problematic in many relationships due to the lack of physical contact. Karen 

Smith says “not being able to see my significant other is hard and sometimes, you question yourself, should we still be together if we cannot see one another?” We, as humans, are social individuals who thrive with human contact. On the other hand, with some, absence makes the heart grow fonder. Couples who are not living together are finding that when they do spend long periods apart the time that they spend time together is extra special. 

The worldwide pandemic has impacted couples’ relationships both positively and negatively. The increase of couples failing to stay together during the pandemic has skyrocketed, nevertheless, most are trying to make it work. Staying home and staying safe is every couple’s number one priority, hopefully, relationships can overcome this obstacle.