When I was a teenager, I remember for years I felt really sad that day and often ended up eating as much chocolate as I could to overcome my sadness. At that time, my teenage brain was not able to grasp the idea that I could still enjoy the day, regardless of whether I had a romantic relationship or not.
If you think your teen is also at high-risk to turn to emotional eating during this day, please let them know that Valentine's Day can be a wonderful opportunity for self-love and positive experiences, even if we are not in a romantic relationship. Self-love is actually the absolute necessity for any other kind of love to exist, in my humble opinion. When we love ourselves, we can love others from a place of happiness and not from a place of misery and sadness.
Here are some uplifting and enjoyable activities that a teenager can do on Valentine's Day:
- 1Friendship Celebration: Spend the day with friends. Plan a get-together, movie night, or a fun activity. Celebrate the love and support you have in your friendships.
- Self-Care on Valentine’s Day: Treat yourself with a self-love day. Take a long bath, do a face mask, read a book, or indulge in activities that make you feel good and relaxed.
- Creative Outlet: Engage in a creative hobby or project. Whether it's painting, writing, playing music, or crafting, expressing yourself creatively can be therapeutic and fulfilling.
- Fitness Fun: Get active! Go for a run, attend a workout class, or try a new sport. Exercise releases endorphins, which can boost your mood and energy levels.
- Explore Nature: Take a walk in a nearby park, go hiking, or simply spend time outdoors. Nature has a calming effect and can be a great way to clear your mind.
- Volunteer:Give back to the community by volunteering. Helping others can be incredibly rewarding and shift your focus to the positive impact you can make.
- Learn Something New: Use the day to learn a new skill or hobby. This could be cooking a new recipe, picking up an instrument, or trying out a dance tutorial online.
- Virtual Hangout: Connect with friends or family members virtually. Play online games, have a video call, or engage in a virtual activity together.
- Write a Gratitude Journal: Reflect on the positive aspects of your life by starting a gratitude journal. Write down things you're thankful for, focusing on the good moments.
- Listen to Uplifting Music: Create a playlist of your favorite feel-good songs. Music has the power to change your mood and lift your spirits.
Remember, Valentine's Day is not just about romantic love; it's about all forms of love, including self-love and the love you share with friends and family.
Embrace the opportunity to create positive experiences and focus on the aspects of your life that bring you joy and fulfillment.
I encourage you to share the above with anyone who you think might need to hear this message.
I hope we can all remember to take care for ourselves better, not only on Valentine’s day but every day!
Common Questions
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About the Author
Dr. Jenny Gourgari, MD — Pediatric Endocrinologist & Obesity Medicine Specialist
Dr. Jenny is a board-certified Pediatric Endocrinologist and Obesity Medicine Specialist with 15+ years of experience helping teens with insulin resistance and prediabetes. She is the founder of Lifestyle for Teens and creator of the LIFT 100-Day Program. No diets. No shame. Just hormones that work.
Board Certified: Pediatric Endocrinology • Pediatrics • Obesity Medicine (ABOM) • MSc, Georgetown University • Full credentials →
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