Question: Hi! I have been facing a few problems recently. My girlfriend, with whom I had been in a relationship for more than three years, broke up with me. She broke up because she cannot handle being in a long-distance relationship. I am working in the marketing sector, which absorbs quite a bit of time. And I am also preparing for my further studies and, indeed, I cannot afford to give her much time. I tried every possible way to convince her but she doesn’t want to listen to me. My relationship with my parents is also strained and I live in a different city. Under such circumstances, my girlfriend was my priority and after being in the long-distance relationship for two years, she is now finding it difficult to continue the relationship. We were very serious about the relationship and were thinking about marriage too. But now she does not believe that we can have a future together. I cannot handle the stress of separation and cannot concentrate on my work or studies. Even my health is failing. Please suggest me some ways to deal with this.
-By Anonymous

Response by Dr. Rachna Khanna Singh: Thank you for getting in touch and sharing your problem. I understand it must be very overwhelming for you to concentrate on work and deal with the concerns that come along with a long-distance relationship. Sometimes, it is difficult for everything to fall into place as it should ideally be.

However, firstly, I would suggest an open dialogue between you and your partner. Tell her how you feel about being away from her and how you are coping with your challenging job.

Further, I understand that work and preparations for further studies must be very demanding but in a relationship, you must find some time for your partner as well. You should be able to reassure her that you are fully committed and working towards being together. Find a common ground that would enable you and your partner to meet now and then.

In addition, I would also suggest that regardless of the situation, you must look after your health as your health is equally important.

Hope this could help you in some way. For further guidance and assistance, feel free to book an appointment with a counsellor.

Dr. Rachna Khanna Singh is HOD of Holistic Medicine & Psychology in Artemis Hospital, Gurgaon

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