Valentine’s Day: a day that commemorates and honors love, a day that so many people dread every year. Once February rolls around and pink, heart-shaped candies fill the aisles, people dread the holiday and feel low about themselves if they are not in a relationship. But why is this the case? Why should we feel pressure to have a Valentine or to be in a relationship by February 14th? Why should we have to share the holiday with someone else?
Why can’t the person we show and honor our love towards be ourselves?
Instead of sulking around because society has duped everyone into believing people are happier in a relationship, enjoy being single. Indulge In it. Cherish it.
Self-love is vital for our mental wellbeing, yet it is widely neglected. Society’s fixation on productivity and perfectionism—the perfect relationship, the perfect job, the perfect body—has exacerbated in recent years, largely in part due to social media omnipresence. This has been linked in various studies to higher rates of depression, anxiety, and other mental health disorders, especially among younger generations. A 2019 study conducted by the American Psychological Association found that between 2005 and 2017, the rate of adolescents experiencing major depression symptoms rose 52%, and 63% in young adults from 2009 to 2017.
Take advantage of the amorous day by showing yourself the attention, appreciation and compassion you deservingly need. Plan a day for yourself and do what sincerely makes you happy. Treat yourself to dinner and dessert or buy yourself a gift. Unwind and destress with some self-care activities: take a bath, put on a face mask, get a massage or a manicure. Watch a movie and snuggle on your couch with some popcorn. Or if you don’t want to be alone, hang out with friends you feel comfortable and genuine around or spend time with family.
Everyone deserves to spend Valentine’s Day with someone they love and someone is always out there. Yet the most obvious person is the most neglected, and that person is yourself.