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3 Signs You and Your Partner Are Falling Into ‘Roommate Syndrome’ (and How to Fix It)

“It might take some intention, but it is worth the investment to keep the spark alive.”

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When it comes to long-term relationships, it’s easy to fall into a rut and become complacent. However, this behavior can destroy even the best and healthiest connections. Experts call this “roommate syndrome,” and it’s not as lighthearted as it might sound.

What Is ‘Roommate Syndrome’ in Dating?

In dating, roommate syndrome refers to the dynamic between a couple who operate more as roommates than actual partners. This is a common experience when partners decide to move in together.

“After the adjustment period, a level of comfortability settles in as the partners become accustomed to living with each other and their routines,” Julia Tehovnik, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) in Chicago, IL, and founder of Take Care Psychotherapy Services, told VICE. “The thrill of spending the night together and waking up to your loved one in your bed becomes replaced with the familiarity of sharing a bed every night. The excitement of meeting them out at a restaurant for a dinner date is replaced by the same rotating weekday meals. Time spent together becomes time spent watching TV shows or staring at separate screens on the same couch.”

As Tehovnik puts it, just because you might be spending more time with your person doesn’t mean the time is of high........

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