Dealing with Loneliness during Valentine's Day

Valentine's day is often seen as an exciting day to celebrate romantic relationships. While couples may view this day as exciting, if you are single, the day can feel less like a celebration and more like a reminder of loneliness. However, you don't need to feel sad or lonely on Valentine's day this year. Try some of the alternatives below to avoid loneliness this Valentine's Day

1. Practice Self Love

If you tend to feel lonely on valentines day year after year or recently went through a rough breakup, consider planning ahead to make a day for yourself this February 14th. Do something you enjoy doing on your own. Hike to a trail you've never been to or go to a store in town you've been interested in. By focusing on activities you enjoy, you will have less time to dwell on being single on Valentine's day. You may find that if you have a plan for the day, you won't even have time to focus on February 14th being Valentine's day!

2. Show Love Through Service

Valentine's day is about showing love and appreciation for those you love, so consider taking the day as an opportunity to spread joy in your community! Many people are alone this valentine's day and also feeling lonely, and by reminding them that they are loved and appreciated, you will feel more appreciated in return. If you take the opportunity to volunteer with a local group, you can also spend time with other people who might be feeling lonely on Valentine's day.

3. Plan a Platonic Valentine's Day Outing

While Valentine's day focuses on romantic love, this is not the only kind of love we experience. Consider celebrating the platonic love you have for friends and family this Valentine's Day! Make plans with friends and family to have outings such as going to the movies or going to dinner. Not having a significant other doesn't mean that you don't have people you love and people who love you.

4. Remember It's Just Another Day

While it may be nice to spend Valentine's Day with a significant other, try to remember that Valentine's Day is really just another day. Stick to your typical daily routine this February 14th, and don't focus on what you might do if you were in a relationship. While the media may make it seem like you are completely alone in not spending Valentine's Day with a significant other, many other people feel the way you are. 

5. Consider talking to a professional

Loneliness is a normal part of being human, and everyone feels lonely sometimes. However, if you feel overwhelmed by loneliness or have thoughts of self-harm, consider reaching out to a professional. A therapist can work with you to develop healthy coping mechanisms. Alluvion Health offers behavioral health services with trained therapists who can help you develop coping mechanisms. To schedule an appointment, contact 406-454-6973 or visit www.alluvionhealth.org/services/behavioral.

Julie Trosper is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor at Alluvion Health.  She finds it an honor to be a part of a patient's life and healing process and getting to watch her patients heal and change.