Relationships are hard to handle. They are complicated puzzles that take time, work, and communication. In today’s world, they also require attention or a presence on social media, making the overall relationship harder. Then life happens and balancing a relationship feels impossible, especially if your significant other lands themselves in jail.
Having a relationship with someone while they are in jail is not easy. Between accepting that they are in jail and why they’re in in jail, it makes any relationship shake. It doesn’t matter if you’ve been married for several years, or together for two, having a significant other in jail is not easy. One of the reasons why it is so difficult on the relationship is the lack of communication. While your significant other is incarcerated, you won’t be able to communicate in the same way.
Unfortunately, while your loved one is in jail or prison, they won’t have access their cell phone and will have limited access to phones in general. When they are able to make phone calls, you will have to pay a hefty price to talk with them. The cost of phone calls will make having conversations with your loved one extra difficult. Your next form of communication will be through letters. Letters are a slower way to communicate and you’ll have to pay for stamps as well.
You may also be able to have visitation time with your loved one. Conjugal visits can happen, but they are considered a privilege. They are also often limited and only approved if you are married. If you can’t get a conjugal visit, you may be able to visit them on selected days. Some prisons allow monthly or weekly visitors for certain hours of the day.
Besides the difficult methods of communication, you’ll also have to deal with the stigma. No one ever aspires to fall in love with a prisoner. There aren’t any fairytales or happily-ever-after stories that involve visiting a loved one in jail. Your family and friends may have opposing opinions about your relationship. Their opinions can add tension and stress to your relationship.