Overcoming Loneliness in the Month of Love

With the romantic holiday right around the corner, many people are reminded about their own relationship statuses and how complicated they may be — whether it be from a lack of a significant other, asking people out on dates, or even asking someone to specifically be your Valentine. What comes with the holiday are also the general capitalistic ventures where companies give out Valentine’s-themed items and food to entice people to further celebrate the holiday, but it can also have a negative impact on the individuals who have a soured feeling towards Valentine’s.

With a holiday like Valentine’s Day that’s often focused on romantic love, it’s also a good time to remember that love can also be focused on oneself. Sometimes feelings of depression and anxiety worsen during these times of the colder seasons, emphasizing the loneliness that people may have when they are lacking in love in different forms. Self-love and self-care are important attributes to one’s own mental wellbeing, and focusing on them may help alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety.  

1. Practice self-care and love. Treating oneself is a type of compassion in self-love and care, which helps really recharge your energy tank. Take the time to celebrate yourself first and bring some happiness to yourself, like doing something that will give you joy even if there isn’t anyone else around. While loving yourself is hard to do, it doesn’t mean it’s something you don’t deserve.  
   
   
2. Celebrate all your relationships. Not only is expressing love to yourself important, but also love to all your other relationships, like your significant other(s), friends, and family. Spending time around with those that love you is a great way to help bring more happiness and serenity into your life, or at the very least distract you from some things that may be upsetting. A lot of times this holiday is a way that people take advantage of to spend time or gift others with things that express their care and love, so don’t be afraid to do the same and strengthen your relationship with those around you!
   
   
3. Communicate with others. Even though the holiday may or may not be important to you, it doesn’t take away from the fact that communication is a vital part of a healthy relationship with anybody. Sending out wishes of thoughtfulness towards others, whether it be about Valentine’s or not, is a great way to maintain a good relationship with others. And if you’re struggling with mental health, then talking about it with your support system can help a ton, including asking for some alone time (for us introverts!). 
   
   
4. Practice mindfulness. Mindfulness is a skill that you can practice this holiday season to help alleviate feelings of stress and other symptoms of anxiety. Taking the time to get more in touch with yourself and your emotions can help take the stress away for many people. It can also be a coping skill to take control of your emotions when they become too strong and overwhelming.
   
   
5. Seek support if necessary. With any holiday focused around love, many people are reminded about the love that they have missing in their lives, whether it be romantic, familial, or platonic. Even when people are surrounded by people that love them, it doesn’t mean that they aren’t able to feel lonely in a room full of them. If you are struggling with your mental health and feeling like you are experiencing symptoms of depression, please reach out and seek support from people around you or from professionals. 
   
   

Are you looking for professional support to help you navigate these complicated feelings? I specialize in working with adolescents and young adults who are facing anxiety, depression, grief, BIPOC concerns, LGBTQ+ issues, and the intersection of experiences and identities. You can request an appointment with me at Lifeologie Counseling Henderson or search our site by mental health specialty or to find a therapist near you.

Happy Valentine’s to you from the Lifeologie Counseling Team across the United States!