Dear Life Section, 

I’m a freshman this year and worried about maintaining a long-distance relationship with my high-school boyfriend. Any tips?

Sincerely,

Distant Dater

Dear Distant Dater,

Long-distance relationships can be challenging but are achievable with the right approach.

Effective communication is essential. Establish a communication routine that works for both of you, whether it’s daily check-ins, weekly video calls or a combination of both.

Share experiences together, even from afar, to strengthen your bond. Consider watching movies or shows at the same time, playing online games together or sharing daily updates about your lives.

Trust is at the center of any relationship, especially long-distance ones. Be open, honest and transparent with your partner about your feelings, expectations and concerns. It’s normal to feel lonely or frustrated at times; don’t hesitate to express these emotions to your partner. Mutual support and understanding are needed to navigate the challenges of distance.

Maintain your own life and interests to ensure personal growth and relationship satisfaction. Don’t let your relationship consume your entire world. Pursue hobbies, spend time with friends and family and explore your surroundings. This will enrich your life and bring new perspectives to your relationship.

When you’re reunited, make the most of your time together. Plan special activities, create new memories and simply enjoy each other’s company. Remember, quality time is more important than quantity. Distance can indeed strengthen a relationship, but it requires effort, patience and a strong foundation. Celebrate the small victories, and don’t be afraid to seek support from friends, family or even a therapist.

Sincerely,

The Life Section