Survey: Valentine’s Day Makes Teen Depression Worse

According to a 2019 survey, nearly 70% of Eastside students say that Valentine’s Day is responsible for causing or increasing depression in February. Seeing couples exchange gifts, walking around with balloons, carrying roses or enormous stuffed animals — these sights remind many single teenagers of what they do not have.

Many single teenagers find their self-esteem lowering this time of year. The Valentine’s Day holiday may cause them to question whether they are attractive enough to be in a relationship or if they are worth it.

“Seeing people get cute gifts can make people sad because they think no one likes them,” says Angel Delcid, a senior.

Sophomore Daniel Ruiz puts it more simply. “It’s trash,” he says, his face sour.

On Valentine’s Day, couples like to flaunt their gifts. And that can get to single teenagers, making them wonder if they will ever be loved like that.

“The romantic atmosphere around them is a constant reminder that they are single and may make them feel that they will always be,” explains Maleah Smith, a junior.

Valentine’s Day can drown many teenagers into isolation, making them feel even more lonely than they might be. This can be unhealthy.

“They feel lonely,” says alumni Richard Garcia. “They see everyone else smiling and madly in love, and you just feel it. It hurts.”

Sophomore Maribel Cruz agrees. “It makes people feel depressed and lonely,” she says.

Not everyone hates the holiday though. In fact, despite the fact that it can make their fellow teens depressed, approximately 40% of Eastside students claim to enjoy the holiday.

“It’s a cute holiday,” says junior Heaven Mejia. “It’s adorable to see people give gifts to each other. People think it’s cheesy, but people like cheesy.”

Emely Merino agrees with Heaven. “It’s a cute holiday to see couples be in love,” she says. “It’s just adorable. It warms my heart.”

Junior Jazzy Ely may have found the secret to enjoying Valentine’s Day. “It’s better when you have someone to share it with,” she says.

We’re trying, Jazzy. We’re trying.

Katherine Tran contributed to this article. It was originally published in February of 2019.