Loving and taking care of yourself this Valentine's 💕

Valentine's can be a wonderful time to celebrate love, whether that's a partner, friends or family. But for some people, it can also be a challenging time.

Between seeing people carry bouquets of flowers to couple posts flooding your feed, it can be easy to feel like you're missing out. Try to remember that you're not alone. Here's your guide to reclaiming the day. 

Tips to look after yourself

1. Go on a digital detox

Whether it's for a day, the week or the month, if social media doesn't help your wellbeing during this time then take a break from it all. Log out from your apps for a while. If you aren't watching someone else's highlight reel, you won't feel the need to compare it to your life. 

2. Organise to do something with friends

Who says romance is the only love worth celebrating? Your friends are a great support network and you all deserve some quality time together. Organise a low-pressure hang out, cook together or order a cheeky takeaway and host a move marathon. 

3. Treat yourself

If you'd prefer to have some alone-time, make sure to treat yourself and take time for some of the things you love. For example, cook your favourite meal, have a pamper day, watch your favourite series – practicing self care is very important all year round! 

4. Be productive

Looking to just distract yourself? Head to the library or a café to do some uni work you've been putting off or clean your bedroom. You'll wake up the next day feeling productive and ahead of the game. 

Or...

Attend our Anti-Valentine's Social

🗓️ 13 February 2026

📍Freemen's Common and The Village Hub

Residence Life is hosting an Anti-Valentine's Party so everyone who isn't celebrating can get together and still have an unforgettable night. Think alternative music, emo nostalgia, great food, drinks and lots of unapologetic fun!

How to support a flatmate

If you notice that your flatmate is retreating or seems a bit down during this time, there's lots of little things you can do to make their day a bit better. 

• Get out of the flat – offer to go on a walk around campus or to a social space to play some games and relax. 
• Share a meal – make dinner together for the night and talk or watch something over food. 
• Normalise the day – treat the day like any other Tuesday and don't bring up the holiday unless they do.
• Spend time in shared spaces – if your flatmate is feeling down in their room, go into the kitchen or living room and keep the door open to let them know there's a safe space nearby. 

It's OK to feel a bit 'meh' on Valentine's Day. Just remember that you're not alone and to look after yourself if you're finding it all a bit difficult to cope with (and that all the heart-shaped chocolate goes on clearance soon!). 

If you do feel like you need some extra support, don't hesitate to reach out to any of our support services in halls. We're here for you.