Valentine’s day “equals” couples day all across the world but in as much as people receive gifts and feel loved which boosts their mental states, so much so does it also negatively affect the mental health of the untethered, lonely and single people.
However, for some who are single, it shines a spotlight on their isolation.
Research has shown that the act of giving and receiving gifts can have a positive impact on psychological well-being. Giving gifts can increase feelings of generosity and compassion, improve relationships, and boost self-esteem. Receiving gifts, especially from loved ones, can increase feelings of love and attachment, as well as reducing stress and anxiety.
Anne Wilson, a psychology professor at Laurier University says Valentine’s Day can be tough for singles because of the connotations attached to the date. It “valorizes” being linked to another person in a romantic relationship, she says, while “emphasizing societal stigma against singlehood.”
Single people might become very isolated, especially those who recently had a break-up or divorce, as Valentine’s Day can also be an emotionally torturous reminder of failed attempts at finding that “soul mate” which is often very elusive. They may suffer from lowself-esteem, depression and anxiety.
Valentine’s Day also has a tendency to convey a very specific message: that men must spend a lot of money on romantic presents or their partners will have low opinion of them.
”The mental health impacts can include increased depression and feeling [as if they’re not] good enough. Additionally, men can experience anxiety as Valentine’s Day approaches. They may worry about buying the perfect gift or their partner’s anger if they do not meet their expectations. I think it is fair to say that the standard for men on Valentine’s Day is un-meetable.”
Advertisements for Valentine’s Day also target women. The primary distinction appears to be that, whereas men are frequently portrayed as the givers of gifts, women are frequently portrayed as the recipients. Both parties to that equation have the potential to raise unrealistic expectations that, if not satisfied, can result in feelings of guilt in men, disappointment in women, and general strife in relationships.
Authors-Roberta Appiah & Ahanta Bred
