Valentine's Day Without Your Significant Other

Holidays can often be a trigger for grief after the loss of a spouse or long-term partner. Memories of holidays together can pop up from store displays, themed commercials, and more. With Valentine’s Day being a holiday of love, it can be a harsh reminder of love lost. Below, we will discuss ways to handle grief on Valentine’s Day. 

Make Plans With Family or Friends

If you have single friends or family members, try to spend time with them. Being alone can make a holiday like Valentine’s Day feel even more lonesome. Go to dinner or brunch with friends, or host a movie night. 

Writing a Letter to Your Loved One

Journaling and writing can be very cathartic for grief. Put your feelings on the page, and address a letter to your deceased loved one. Even if you don’t believe in an afterlife, the simple act of writing for them can help you feel more at peace.

Visit Your Loved One’s Resting Place

Valentine’s Day may be a good reason to visit your significant other’s resting place. Whether this is their gravesite or where their ashes were scattered, taking the trip to visit can make you feel closer to them. 

Volunteer your Time

Donating your time to a worthy cause can be a great way to give back and help others in need. Consider helping out at a local charity, food bank, or other community outreach program. If any community service organization was close to your loved one’s heart, consider choosing that one. 

Do Something for Yourself

Treat yourself, and don’t feel guilty about it. Go to the spa or buy yourself something nice. It can be easy to feel alone and isolated on Valentine’s Day. But on a day of love, it is important to show yourself some appreciation. 

The author of this post is not a professional therapist or counselor. For more personalized grief care, find a grief counselor that is right for you. For our Grief Resource Center, written by Dr. Bill Webster, click here. 
For over 50 years, Matthew Funeral Home has been serving the Staten Island community. We can help with almost every aspect of your loved one’s memorial service. Our family is here to serve yours, every step of the way.