Dealing with loneliness or grief this Valentine’s Day (2024)

FAQs

How to deal with loneliness on Valentine's Day? ›

People may inadvertently cause more harm than good by using phrases such as “time heals all wounds” or “they are in a better place.” A much kinder and supportive response would be something like “I'm here for you” or letting the grieving person know that they're on your mind with words of comfort.

Perhaps you have fewer friends than you would like, you're shy or introverted, you've just moved to a new city, or you've struggled with a variety of challenges recently. It sounds cliché but remember that your best Valentine is yourself. It's possible to enjoy your own company and be alone but not lonely.

“I'm sending warm wishes of peace and comfort to you in this difficult time.” “I wish I could take away your pain, but know that I'm here for you if you need me.” “Your sudden loss is such a shock to us. We are profoundly sad at this news and here for you for anything you need.”

Tell them you're thinking of them

Sending someone who is grieving a message to say you're thinking of them will show them they don't have to cope alone. You may not be able to change what they are going through, but knowing you care could give them some comfort. "I've been thinking of you."

Reach out to friends and family.

Alone time is good, but if you are withdrawing from the people that support you, Valentine's Day is just as good a time as any to reach back out. Schedule a Zoom call to share photos and memories of your special person with other people who share your grief.

Singles Awareness Day (or Singles Appreciation Day) is celebrated on February 15 each year. It is an unofficial holiday celebrated by single people. It serves as a complement to Valentine's Day for people who are not married or in a romantic relationship.

Today, my fellow single friend, I challenge you to change the direction of the spotlight. Move the spotlight from what you don't have and what you're not getting on Valentine's Day, to what you do have and what you can give. You do not have anyone who expresses romantic love to you.

How does Valentine's day affect single people? ›

You may experience loneliness, sadness, regret, or self-doubt as you see couples go on a first date or show their love to each other. If you've been single for many years, you might have thoughts of giving up on love altogether. If you relate to these experiences, you're not alone.

Try something like: “I know I can't meet all your needs (or be present as much as you'd like), but I just want to remind you how much you mean to me and that you can count on me. Is there anything you can think of right now that I could say or that we could do that would feel meaningful?”

We are all born alone and die alone. The loneliness is definitely part of the journey of life. At the innermost core of all loneliness is a deep and powerful yearning for union with one's lost self.

Try saying something like “We all need friends. I'm here for you.” Try to reassure them of their value and self worth. For example, if they've just gone through a tough break up, remind them of all the things they have to offer.

While it's true that Valentine's Day can trigger depression in people who are single, people in relationships feel it, too. The holiday often brings with it unrealistic expectations that can cause couples to question whether they're in the right relationship or whether they're getting what they want from it.

Get control of your emotions. I say this because some people might make a drastic decision to break up or decide that their partner doesn't love them as much as they thought. Instead of making a life changing decision, talk to your partner. By talk, I mean ask them questions.

There's Nothing Wrong With It

But being sad that you're single on Valentine's Day doesn't make you bad at being alone, or weak, or unempowered. Feeling sad on Valentine's Day is not taking a step backwards.

You may experience loneliness, sadness, regret, or self-doubt as you see couples go on a first date or show their love to each other. If you've been single for many years, you might have thoughts of giving up on love altogether. If you relate to these experiences, you're not alone.