Bellmore, NY - February 2, 2015 – While Valentine’s Day has come to symbolize a time to feel loved and to give tokens of love, for many it has become a dreaded holiday. For those not in a relationship, or in an unhealthy relationship, or estranged from family, or facing joblessness, or other challenging life events, Valentine’s Day can exacerbate feelings of loneliness, isolation, unworthiness and depression.
“Valentine’s Day can be an extremely stressful time of year,” states Theresa Buhse, Association Executive Director of Long Island Crisis Center. “As a matter-of-fact, those in the field of suicide prevention and crisis intervention, often cite this holiday as the beginning of the higher suicide statistics that are seen in the Spring.”
The Crisis Center offers some suggestions for overcoming negative feelings on this day:
- Focus on what you have rather than on what you don’t have
- Do something for someone else, such as volunteering at a shelter or a food bank
- Don’t shut yourself in – make plans to be with friends, family or co-workers
Realize that just because you are not in a romantic relationship does not mean that you are alone
- Look at Valentine’s Day as only 24 hours in your life
- If you feel that you just “cannot get through the day,” reach out for help.
“The Crisis Center is available 24 hours-a-day/7 days-a-week for support, counseling and resources,” says Linda Leonard, Executive Director. “We know that there is a spike in calls at crisis centers across the country on Valentine’s Day. No one should feel that no one cares. That’s why we’re here.”
To Reach Long Island Crisis Center:
Call 24/7: 516/679-1111
Chat online: www.licconline.org
Text: “LICC” to 839863
Walk-In: 2740 Martin Avenue, 2nd Floor, Bellmore, NY