How to Handle Tensions Between Roommates

Simply discussing problems (not behind each other's back!) may help to relieve bottled-up tension and bring resolutions to the issues at hand. It is imperative that before you initiate any discussions with your roommate that you make it clear that you both will benefit from this, not one bullying another. It may be helpful to have a arbitrator present during the discussion.

Tip: Having a discussion over a meal or a plate of cookies can help ease the transition from giving each other the cold shoulder to a discussion.

Make Compromises

Your current home may not be run by your mother so you are left to do what is free as God's will, with one exception, your roommate may or may not agree with your choices of action. Now, I am not indicating that your roommate is the morality police but it is important to make compromises that you and your roommate can agree on such as quiet hours, chore schedule, and restricting certain areas of the apartment to your extracurricular activities.

Ink a Contract

Once you two have agreed on several compromises, the next step to take is to draw up a contract. Although most contracts penned by a regular citizen of society without a law degree isn't legally binding, it is still helpful to have a written agreement between the two of you outlining general rules of the room, apartment, and/or home that you are sharing. The next time your roommate or you starts straying back to old ways that once infuriated the other individual, you can gently remind yourself or your roommate of the contract.

Tip: Make a copy if your roommate rips up the contract in a fit of drunken rage and forgets about it the next morning.