This archive report was first published on 3 July 2019.
The Challenges of Long Distance Relationships ¶
Long distance relationships are not for the faint of heart. As Christy from Nigeria discovered, the reality of a long distance relationship can be far removed from the idealized version we imagine.
Christy had been in a blissful relationship with her boyfriend for seven years, but things took a turn for the worse when he returned from the USA. 'Things just went sour from that moment,' she recalls. 'We had silly, meaningless fights till I could not bear it anymore.'
According to Remi, a lawyer in Lagos, one of the biggest challenges of long distance relationships is the temptation to cheat. 'Long distance relationships tempt one to cheat, but try as much as possible not to fall into that,' she advises. 'It's very hard to stay faithful, quite tempting since no one is watching. And you have guys all over you.'
Another significant challenge is the effort required to maintain a long distance relationship. Communication and contact become especially increased, as this is the only line that literally connects you. 'It takes a strong will and determined mind not to cheat on your partner,' Remi adds.
Additionally, the frustration of being apart from your loved one can be overwhelming, especially when you feel the relentless urge for sex and have to suffer through suppressing it. 'Long distance relationship sucks if you (the parties) are sexually active,' Remi notes. 'It sucks when you are horny, and when I mean horny, the kind of horny that needs a quick fix and a dk and there is nothing you can do about it.'
Lastly, the worry of what your partner might be up to while you're apart can be a significant source of insecurity. 'The worry of what your partner could be doing over there could also be bothersome if you do not trust them enough,' Remi says.
As Remi so aptly puts it, 'Long distance relationships are not for the faint of heart.' It takes a lot of effort, commitment, and trust to make a long distance relationship work.
