4 Tips for Navigating Valentine's Day

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Valentine’s Day is commonly considered a day of celebration: a time for us to honor and appreciate our romantic relationships. Couples might celebrate this holiday through exchanging gifts or simply spending quality time together. However, the holiday can be difficult, whether you’re single or in a relationship.

The holiday often comes with expectations, many of which can create a sense of pressure and even dread. Studies have shown that individuals report societal expectations as the largest pressure associated with the day. Others point to commercialization, advertising, and social media hype. In other words, the “love-in-the-air” energy that takes place around this time of year can definitely feel overwhelming and inescapable at times. Some may feel an increased sense of isolation while others may experience a stressful obligation to feel happy.

Feelings of loneliness and the fear of missing out are common during Valentine's Day. Research has shown that almost 20 percent of single individuals report feeling sad and lonely on the holiday. In addition, couples might experience negative feelings as well, studies showing that the pressure to celebrate relationships can negatively impact an individual's perceptions towards their romantic partners. If you’re feeling down this Valentine’s Day, believe me when I say you are not alone.

Prioritizing yourself and maintaining a sense of self-worth around this holiday is extremely important. Here are some tips to not only survive, but enjoy this year’s romance-filled celebration:

  • Spend the day in a way that makes you happy, whether this looks like celebrating with your partner, spending time with family or friends, or dedicating the day to your own self-care and wellbeing.

  • While you might not be able to escape the social pressures associated with the holiday, assure yourself that you are in control, and how you choose to experience the day is entirely up to you!

  • Reflect and communicate. Think about what you do love about yourself or your relationship, and reflect on this with yourself or with your partner.

  • Be kind to yourself. Remind yourself that you are a whole person, not a half, and that you are living a complete life with or without a romantic partner.