Being Single On Valentine's Day: Why Does It Hurt So Much?

As Valentine's Day approaches, media, advertisements, and even conversations become saturated with images of blissful couples exchanging tokens of affection. This constant barrage can inadvertently amplify feelings of isolation for those without a romantic partner. These days, even being single has an emotionally and psychologically damaging reputation attached to it. Mehak Walia in a conversation with Akansha Khanna, a counseling psychologist, NLP Practitioner, and life coach who focuses on bettering lives, one day at a time.

- Mehak Walia

While discussing the same, Akansha Khanna, a counseling psychologist, NLP Practitioner, life coach, and the founder of Thrive Limitless, who is currently working with the Hans Foundation for their school project called the Hans Wellness Clinic, said, “The perceived emotional and psychological challenges of being single mostly come from societal norms that prioritize romantic relationships. Cultural narratives and media mostly emphasize that fulfillment primarily comes from romantic partnerships, contributing to the notion that being single is less desirable, making life dull or just not as happening as it is for people in a relationship.”

She explained, “This can create pressure and impact people’s self-esteem and emotional well-being. So basically, society’s emphasis on romantic relationships as a measure of happiness leads to the stigmatization of being single. This societal narrative may foster feelings of inadequacy, loneliness, or fear of judgment for those not in romantic relationships. Personal expectations and comparisons to others' lives may also contribute to the perceived negative reputation of being single. This is why we need to foster a more inclusive perspective on diverse life paths, which can help navigate the emotional and psychological impact of being single.”