With Valentine’s Day just around the corner, we thought that it would be a good time to discuss some negative feelings that surround this holiday. Many individuals suffer from ‘Valentine’s Day depression’, this can occur for a number of reasons and there are many things that you can do to cope with this negativity.
Why Do People Suffer With Valentine’s Day Depression?
Depression is almost never the result of a single factor, it is typically several. However, there are some specific things about this time of year that can trigger Valentine’s Day depression. For example:
- Not being in a relationship – Those not in a relationship may feel excluded and upset to have this reminder that they are single.
- Being in a relationship – Alternatively, you may be unhappy in your current relationship and so Valentine’s Day brings up many negative feelings, including stress and anxiety.
- Your significant other is not around anymore – Perhaps you are not in a relationship because you have lost or broken up with a partner. This makes Valentine’s Day an unpleasant reminder of your past.
- Progressing your relationship – You may experience societal pressure to be at a certain stage in your relationship, this can make you reflect on where you are in life and may leave you feeling left behind or as though you are not on the same page as your partner.
- Money problems – Valentine’s Day is highly commercialised and can leave those with less money feeling inferior. This may be particularly difficult this year, considering the cost of living crisis.
- Sexual expectations – Sexual performance may become a source of anxiety on Valentine’s Day, this has been found to be linked with anxiety and depression for both men and women.
These are just some of the factors which can trigger Valentine’s Day depression, there are many others. The important thing is to learn strategies about how to deal with these negative emotions.
Coping With Valentine’s Day Depression
Here are some suggestions of things that you can do to keep yourself feeling positive this Valentine’s Day:
- Avoid social media – Social media can be a great way to connect with family and friends, but it can also be triggering on days like Valentine’s Day. It might be good to stay away from the platforms that you typically use, and you should also remember that social media is often not a true reflection of the lives of others.
- Treat yourself – Be your own valentine! Cook/go out for/order a nice dinner, grab yourself some chocolates or flowers and treat yourself!
- Don’t abuse substances – Whilst you should treat yourself, this doesn’t mean drinking alcohol or using other substances. Whilst it may feel good at the time, you are likely to feel worse the following day.
- See your friends – Spend some time with people who make you feel valued.
- Don’t focus on romantic love – This is why seeing your friends is great, but you can also spend time with family to enjoy non-romantic love.
- Channel your feelings into something productive – Explore a new hobby, work on yourself or pull out that book you’ve been meaning to read.
- Don’t jump into a relationship – Valentine’s Day depression can have you considering jumping into a new relationship before you’re ready. Remember that you can’t rely on others for your own happiness. You shouldn’t jump into something too soon because you’re feeling lonely.
- Avoid comparisons – Do not compare yourself to others. Your life is your own and you should enjoy it just as you wish.
Hopefully, these tips can help you to avoid Valentine’s Day depression. However, if you still find yourself struggling, you may benefit from life coaching with Dr Jan. These problems are often more deep-rooted than they at first seem and he can help to improve your quality of life.
Get In Touch
Are you ready to take the first step towards a happier and healthier life? If so, get in touch today! The first thing to do is book a Discovery Call with Dr Jan. This free 20-minute consultation will allow you to get to know each other and come up with a plan.
To find out more about what Dr Jan can do for you, please visit our website or follow us on Facebook and Instagram.