5 Ways to Deal with Being Single on Valentine’s Day
Written by Malyka Cardwell
This article was originally published on PhiladelphiaMFT.com. Be sure to check out their site for professional relationship and sex advice.
Hearts, candy, and stuffed animals bombard the aisles of virtually every store entered. Valentine’s Day is upon us. For some, Valentine’s Day is a time to shower their partners with love and adoration. For others, it is a time that triggers feelings of loneliness and depression. If the upcoming of the 14th has left you feeling lonely, here are some ways to cope:
1. Do something for you. Instead of ignoring the day, go out and treat yourself to something special. It can be a hobby or your favorite meal. Just do something you enjoy!
2. Do not bash yourself for being single. There is nothing wrong with you if you aren’t in a relationship. Do not let a relationship determine your worth. Do not let a holiday dictate your comfort level.
3. Have a singles night. If you know other single people, plan a night to go out together. It can be comforting to be in the company of others that share the same experiences. If you don’t have any single friends, check for single events in your city. This can be a great way to meet new people.
4. Focus on the positive. Work on highlighting the things that are going well for you no matter how big or small they are. Do not let one day make you forget about all the good you have going for you.
5. Support Someone. Do you know someone who is recently single? Divorced? Widowed? Spread love to each other. Take the time to reflect on the love you have for one another. This will be healing for you both.
The days surrounding Valentine’s Day can be hard on many people, but they don’t have to be. This time should be used to focus on uplifting yourself and appreciating the things that are going well for you.
Malyka Cardwell is a Couple and Family Therapist based in the Philadelphia. Malyka graduated with a BS in Psychology and a minor in English from Old Dominion University. She then went on to study at Thomas Jefferson University’s Couple and Family Therapy program with a specialization in Sex Therapy. To contact her for professional help email her here: MCardwell@PhiladelphiaMFT.com.
