Single on Valentine's Day?

Valentine’s Day … just a sea of red roses, overpriced dinners and cliché cards? For some, it’s no big deal being single on Valentine's Day and for others it can be pretty crap. We spoke to four young people to hear what they think about the day.

This can help if:

• you're worried about being single on Valentine's Day

• you want to know how other people feel about Valentine's Day

• you want to do something to make yourself feel better on Valentine's Day.

What does Valentine's Day mean to you?

Do you wait in anticipation for a flower delivery, or treat yourself to a movie and pizza? It helps to remember that it’s just one day of the year, and isn’t at all representative of how much you’re loved.

“It's an Americanised holiday that pressures couples to spend money and makes single people feel lonely.” - Erin

“It’s over-hyped, over-commercialised and it puts unnecessary pressure and expectations on couples.” - Jordan

“It’s not necessarily something we need to celebrate, as most people share their love towards others on a daily basis. Although, it can give some people the motivation to speak out about their true feelings.” - Ashlea

“As someone who's asexual and aromantic, I don't get or care about it. It's only another day to me.” - Isobel

Still not sure how to feel about Valentine's Day? Hear from other young people about how they choose to spend the day.

How do you feel about being single on Valentine's Day?

If you embrace your singleness, awesome - get out there and treat yourself. But if you feel a bit crap and lonely, it’s a good idea to talk to a friend or family member and remember to practise self-care.

“It's not a big deal for me to not have a partner on Valentine’s Day.” - Isobel

“I've never been in a relationship so I've learnt to ignore it but it still stings as a reminder that I am still single. I just try to see it as any other day and an excuse to pamper myself if I am feeling a bit down :)” - Erin

“I like to think that the day and it's connotations won't get to me but at the end of the day it does, to a degree. The day is so in your face that you can't help thinking about how you wish you had a someone to share it with or make you feel as loved as everyone else around you "appears" to be.” - Jordan

“Completely fine. It’s not the first time I’ve been single on Valentines Day. I sometimes spend it with friends anyway.” - Ashlea

What do you do to feel good on Valentine's Day?

A lonely hearts party, Netflix on the couch, dinner with friends - this Valentine’s Day, focus on yourself and what you want to do.

“Chocolate and ice cream, funny movies (How To Be Single is amazing for Valentine’s Day, also any of the Pitch Perfect movies because Rebel Wilson is amazing), cat cuddles, and spending time with other single friends.” - Erin

“Get together with any of your single friends and spend the day with each other, being uplifting and being each others valentines. Spend it with family or watch Netflix at home with your cat.” - Jordan

“Spend it with friends or send those in your life that you care about the most a thoughtful and loving message.” - Ashlea

“I wish more people weren't so focused on being in relationships, especially for one single day of the entire year.” - Isobel