Expert Clinical Psychologist Kaan Üçyıldız provided important information on the subject. Although today's relationships seem to have a more flexible structure than ever with the communication opportunities provided by technology, some difficulties defy time. Long-distance relationships are a common situation where couples are forced to live in different cities or even countries for reasons such as school, military service or work. However, these separations carry the potential to create not only a physical distance but also an emotional gap.
Well, is it really “Out of sight, out of mind”? Let’s look at this question from both a scientific and a human perspective.
Psychological Burdens of Distance
Long-distance relationships are actually an exam that tests the trust, patience and commitment that couples have for each other. Research shows that physical closeness is one of the basic elements that strengthen the emotional bond in human relationships. Not being able to see each other regularly, touch each other or share the same environment can bring about emotional difficulties such as loneliness, jealousy or misunderstandings over time. For example, an individual who is separated from their partner due to military service may feel helpless while trying to fill the void in their loved one's daily life. Similarly, someone who moves to another city for work or education may realize that they cannot spend enough time on their relationship while trying to adapt to their new environment.
Communication: Savior or Illusion?
Phones, video calls, and messaging apps are powerful tools for bridging the gaps created by distance. But these tools are not a complete substitute for face-to-face communication. When elements like tone, body language, and immediate reactions are lacking, misunderstandings between couples can increase. A complaint that many couples share is: “Everything seems fine in the text, but inside I feel like something is broken.” This is an indication that technology is not enough to bridge the gap.
Is What Is Out of Sight Really Out of Mind?
This sentence may seem like the fate of long-distance relationships, but it doesn’t apply to every couple. If the relationship is based on trust, open communication, and shared goals, distance can become a test rather than an obstacle. What matters is how couples manage this process. For example, a couple living in different cities can overcome this difficulty by making regular time for each other and keeping their future plans alive. However, if the relationship is already on the rocks, distance can deepen these cracks and accelerate the path to separation.
So, What is the Solution?
It is possible to take some steps to survive in long-distance relationships:
Open Communication: Share your feelings and expectations clearly.
Create a Routine: Meeting at regular intervals adds stability to the relationship.
Small Gestures: Touching touches like writing letters and sending surprise gifts to show love despite the distance can build bonds. strengthens.
Common Goals: Planning to meet at the same place one day increases motivation.
Expert Clinical Psychologist Kaan Üçyıldız said, “As a result, long distances are not a reason for ending relationships, but rather a mirror that reveals existing dynamics. If couples look into this mirror with courage and make the necessary effort, distances will only be a temporary obstacle. Remember, love is not measured by kilometers, but by the closeness of hearts to each other.”
