People in relationships often don’t realize the struggles that single individuals face. It goes far beyond just feeling lonely or having difficulty finding a partner.
A recent TikTok video by dating coach Mia Chard, who was single for 27 years, shed light on the unique challenges long-term singles experience—things that those in relationships may not fully understand.
Here are six struggles that single people frequently deal with:
1. They’re rarely anyone’s top priority
While singles may have close friends and family, they often don’t receive the same level of attention or prioritization as those in romantic relationships. The innate human need to feel important to someone can be difficult to fulfill when friends and family members prioritize their partners or spouses.
2. The constant effort of dating and initiating connections
Finding a romantic partner requires effort, and many singles feel the burden of continuously putting themselves out there. The search for “the one” can be exhausting and isolating, making it important to cultivate deep friendships or even consider having a pet for companionship.
3. Relying solely on family and friends for emotional support
Without a romantic partner to turn to, singles often depend on their friends and family for both emotional and, at times, physical support. However, loved ones may not always be available, leaving them without a consistent support system.
4. Facing societal expectations and stigma
Love and romance are everywhere, from movies to social media, reinforcing the idea that being in a relationship is the norm. Single people often deal with unfair assumptions, such as the belief that something must be “wrong” with them if they haven’t found a partner, adding to the stigma surrounding singlehood.
In contrast, those who are married or in relationships never have to justify their status in the same way.
5. Feeling like a burden
Since singles rely on friends and family for support, they may sometimes feel like a burden—especially when their loved ones have partners they can turn to instead. This can make it difficult to ask for help, as they may struggle with feelings of guilt or unworthiness.
6. The financial strain of living alone
The financial realities of single life are often overlooked. While it may seem cheaper to support just one person, the burden becomes clear when comparing single-income households to those with two earners. In relationships, partners can split rent or mortgage payments, significantly reducing individual costs—something single people don’t have the luxury of doing.
This article was originally published on the Marie Claire Hungary website.
