How To Still Like Your Roommate After Social-Distancing Is Over
SELF-ISOLATION MAY NOT BE EASY IN A HOUSE FULL OF PEOPLE, So HERE ARE 5 TIPS TO EASE THE TENSION
Social distancing isn’t really the best term for what we’re all experiencing right now. In fact, we may be more socially connected than ever before via technology. The World Health Organization even recommends that we use the term “Physical Distancing” instead of “Social Distancing”. It’s just more accurate.
Yes, we’re staying physically distant from everyone we normally interact with. That is, everyone except for our roommates. You’re probably closer to the people you’re living with now than ever before. And that can lead to some problems.
On a normal day, living in a home full of roommates is pretty simple for the most part. You’re probably passing each other like ships in the night, with differing social and work schedules. Now here we are, self-isolating.
When you moved into that 500 square-foot apartment, we bet you never imagined having to live with all of your roommates there 24/7. There’s a lot on social media about how to stay connected with people right now if you’re feeling lonely, but there’s also the flip side of being too connected with people right now. It can be a huge strain on your mental health having to be around people constantly when you aren’t used to it.
No matter how much you love your roommates, this may not be the easiest thing in the world. We have some tips on how to keep the peace — both with them and with your mind.
Address things right away
Spending this much time with anyone can definitely lead to some disagreements. Obviously, communication is always key, but right now it’s more important than ever. Make sure that if something’s bothering you, you (respectfully) let your roommate know. The worst thing you can do for your mental health is to let the anger you’re feeling reach explosive levels.
Stay connected to the outside
Yes, you’re connected constantly to your roommates, but check-in with the rest of the people in your life too. That way, you’re not solely talking with the people you live with, and potentially running out of positive things to say to one another.
Tidy up
If you’re the type of person that leaves a sink full of dishes or never takes the trash out, now might be a good time to change your ways — for the time being, at least. Not only are you cleaning to fight all of the germs right now, but you’re also cleaning to keep the peace with your roommates. If you’re in a house full of people, the last thing you need is stuff cluttering the space too.
Make a schedule
Whether your roommates are your best friends or relative strangers, your routine is now completely intertwined with theirs. Whether you write it down or just communicate it, make sure all of you are on the same page on when you’re working and what your plans are for each day. That way, you are able to do what you need to do while respecting what your roommates are doing too.
Support each other
We’re in it together. Take this as a time to connect with your roommates, and schedule game nights or movie nights to spend all together. At the very least, you can be a source of support and encouragement for them during a time that brings up a whole lot of emotions, and hopefully, they’ll return the favor.