Knowing that Valentine’s Day is right around the corner and couples will be out all weekend celebrating their romances, I started wondering if these types of days impact our mental health. After all, if you’re single and not into mingling, Valentine’s Day isn’t the most exciting day for you.
Here in the marketing office at Hamilton, everyone still cares about Valentine’s Day and romance, other than me. Fifteen years of marriage, two kids, getting a little older, and Valentine’s Day just really isn’t a top priority anymore. But when I asked them about whether they thought Valentine’s Day was ever depressing, they all just shrugged their shoulders and looked at me as if – well, they just looked at me. I continued trying to explain –could the day have negative effects on people who don’t have dates, yet have to see all the posts on social media of everyone living their best life? Evidently, I’m the only one who thought this way. So, I started a little research.
Unfortunately, I did not find actual proof of a link between Valentine’s Day and poor mental health. I did, however, find lots of suggestions on how to celebrate and history on Valentine’s Day. Did you know it is named after two guys named Valentine that were killed during the Roman feast of Lupercalia? And let’s just say I’m glad I am not a woman who lived in Roman times.
So, if you’re not buying jewelry and flowers for your loved one or a card that will contribute to the $18.6 billion dollar day for the greeting card industry, let’s figure out how you can own this day on your own accord.
First, let’s acknowledge that all those negative feelings of needing to have a date or big plans, come from our society. It’s peer pressure. Where does peer pressure belong? Nowhere! So, kick it to the curb. Don’t think about failed relationships. We all have them and there is always a reason they did not work out. Don’t spend your day re-hashing it in your mind. Let it go.
Instead, pick one of these to do – or all of them:
- Celebrate you! You’re the best person in your life and you have to love yourself the most, so put your own crown on.
- Appreciate all your relationships, not just romantic ones. We need everyone in our lives, not just our partners.
- If you want dinner, flowers, and jewelry – go for it. You can even buy it for yourself.
- Make some plans with your friends. Group plans always end up being the best anyhow.
- Do something for yourself. Stop putting off that lesson or crazy idea.
- Spa day! Need I say more?
If you feel like you need to speak with someone because you are going to hurt yourself, call the Suicide Hotline at 988. Just dial 988. You are not alone. Reach out now. You are worth it, and you are needed here, even if it doesn’t feel that way right now.
Then make an appointment with anyone in our behavioral health department, 810-406-4246.
Whatever you decide to do with your Valentine’s Day, remember to take care of your own mental health first. Happy Valentine’s Day!
