Five tips for getting through Valentine’s Day when navigating a divorce

If you’re newly divorced, or are currently going through the process, Valentine’s Day can be charged with mixed emotions. Everywhere you turn, there are hearts and flowers, and social media is awash with couples declaring their undying love for each other. Here are our five top tips for enduring Valentine’s Day if you’re not feeling the love this year …

1. Don’t put pressure on yourself

Don’t feel like you must act in a certain way. You might want to completely avoid any mention of the day; allow yourself to feel sad about the end of your relationship if you’re finding Valentine’s Day particularly difficult this year.

On the other hand, some people choose to celebrate an alternative to Valentine’s Day – holding a Galentine’s or Palentine’s Day with their friends. Do whatever feels right for you.

2. Focus on the positives

Whilst it can be easy on Valentine’s Day to think about what you’re missing out on, try to reframe it by thinking about what you have – what could you do on the day that perhaps you couldn’t have done before because your spouse wouldn’t have enjoyed it? Perhaps it’s going on a night out with your friends or going on a special day trip with your children.

3. Disconnect from social channels

It can be tempting to get caught up in what everyone else is doing on Valentine’s Day and who your former partner is spending it with. Try to avoid doom scrolling. Distract yourself with other activities and if you must check your social channels, set yourself a time limit.

4. Spread the love

There are many ways to show people you care – Valentine’s doesn’t have to be about romantic love. You could treat a loved one to a home-made meal or call a friend to tell them how important they are to you. Doing something thoughtful for another person boosts serotonin levels, helping us to feel content.

5. Ask for support

If it’s your first Valentine’s Day after a divorce or separation, things will get easier, but if you find the prospect of Valentine’s Day challenging, tell those around you and ask them for support. Your loved ones might assume that you’d prefer to spend the day alone and not speak about it, but if that’s not the case, they’ll be pleased to hear from you.

For separated couples or those thinking about separating, Valentine’s Day can be a challenging time. If you’d like to speak to one of our expert family solicitors to discuss your specific circumstances, get in touch with us today.