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By: Christina Vanacore, Executive Director, Island Practice Management
"Love (noun) - an intense feeling or deep affection; a great interest and pleasure in something; a person or thing that one loves."
For those in great relationships, Valentine's Day is all about love, flowers and those giant cellophane covered hearts filled with chocolates! But for many Valentine's Day, and all the hoopla surrounding it, brings up thoughts of loneliness or a sense of missing out. For those who struggle with anxiety, they may find that dating is hard, as it invokes anxiety in a social setting. Someone who is struggling with depression may find that just getting through the day affects how they show love to their significant other and family. Or if someone you love is struggling with a mental illness, you may feel that you are losing that connection you once had.
There are all different types of love: romantic love, platonic love, unrequited love (we've all been there!) There's love we have for family and friends, and significant others but how about the low we show ourselves? Have you ever taken a moment to think about the love you're showing yourself? My bet is many of us can’t say we really think about ourselves as much as we think of others when it comes to love, but loving yourself is such an important aspect of being mentally healthy. Why not take advantage of this day of love in a different way?
Here are a few ways that you can love yourself this Valentine's Day:
Make a list of 3 things that you love about yourself This list can be as simple or as elaborate as you want it to be. This is about you!
Go Shopping Who says you must wait for someone else to buy those flowers or chocolates?
Plan some time with friends Surround yourself with people who enjoy just being yourself with
Do something that you enjoy Whether it's a hobby, a favorite movie or just dancing around the house to your favorite song, be selfish and enjoy your moment
Get dressed up even if you have no place to go Putting on an outfit that makes you feel good and confident can make a world of difference
Enjoy some downtime Curl up with a good book or your favorite show and just relax
Valentine's Day doesn't just have to be about sharing love with someone else. It's about love - that's all! Enjoy your day - no matter what you're doing.
If you or someone you love is in need of some support, please reach out to our team at Island Psychiatry today make an appointment at 631-474-8099.