On Valentine’s Day, it’s all about self-care.

On Valentine’s Day, it’s all about self-care.

There’s a link between holidays and health issues. It could be the stress of trying to keep up with the demands of the day, or the fact that drinking tends to spike at these times of year. Whether or whether Valentine’s Day has special meaning for you and your significant other, it’s a fantastic day to reflect on the most important love of all: loving yourself and your health.

We urge you to avoid going to the doctor on Valentine’s Day and instead become a healthy person all year. Use these ideas to have a safer and better day, whether you’re planned a romantic dinner for two or flying solo.

  1. Be Conscious of Your Sexual Health

“Love is in the air!” exclaims the idealist. The realist believes that being prepared is always a good idea. It may be an awkward and unromantic talk to have, but at the end of the day, preventable risks have no place in a partnership. Last year, 2.3 million cases of sexually transmitted illnesses were diagnosed in the United States, according to CNN. In addition, the three most common STIs (chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis) are on the rise, according to the CDC.

Keep yourself and your spouse safe by doing the following:

  • Obtain HPV and Hepatitis B vaccinations.
  • Discuss your sexual health with your partner.
  • Before beginning a new relationship, be tested for STDs and STIs.
  • If you have any questions or suspect something is wrong, always consult a healthcare practitioner.
  1. Limit Your Alcohol Consumption

While not one of the booziest occasions, drinking on Valentine’s Day can be dangerous, particularly if consumed in excess. It can also be a gateway drug for those who already have a drinking problem. Drinking in moderation is good, unless you have certain health concerns.

While drinking has been linked to a variety of illnesses, there is no denying the link between drinking and depression. Holidays can bring on feelings of loneliness, and it’s all too easy to drown those sentiments with booze. When drinking and driving are combined, a night out on the town may quickly turn into a night of terror.

  • Stay safe for yourself and your loved ones by never drinking and driving.
  • Consume alcohol in moderation.
  • If you’re going out to dine or vacation, designate a sober driver.
  • Between each alcoholic beverage, a glass of water should be consumed.
  • Recognizing the signs and symptoms of alcoholism
  • Always read labels to avoid combining drugs and alcohol.
  1. Take care of your mental health

Do you have a bad mood around the holidays? You’re not the only one who feels this way. Every year, 40 million persons over the age of 18 in the United States suffer from anxiety problems.

These mental health recommendations will help you take care of yourself:

  • Take breaks and de-stress with basic breathing exercises and meditation.
  • Maintain a consistent sleep schedule that allows you to wake up refreshed and ready to face the day. Let others know how you’re feeling.
  • Give yourself a well-deserved pat on the back by using positive affirmations.

Mental health and depression are serious topics that should not be treated lightly. If self-help advice isn’t adequate, seek professional assistance. After all, the most essential relationship you have with yourself is with yourself.

  1. Make Physical Health a Priority

Chocolate and champagne, roses and love, candlelight and a romantic supper go together like chocolate and champagne. Unfortunately, this means that one health issue could exacerbate another. Many studies have linked mental problems to worsening cardiac issues, diabetes, and a variety of other ailments.

While it may not seem like the most romantic activity, you and your partner may work together to improve your physical and mental health. Even minor adjustments, such as establishing a daily workout regimen or include at least 2.5 cups of vegetables and fruits in your balanced diet every day, can make a major difference in your mental health. Starting with some chocolate-covered strawberries is a great place to start. In fact, your Valentine’s Day dinner is an excellent starting point for bettering the health of both of your hearts.

Holidays are frequently associated with injuries in the short term. While we appreciate being your first choice for urgent care and yearly exams, you can avoid the heart-covered band-aids and a trip to one of our offices by doing the following:

  • Being cautious when preparing meals, especially when working with knives and other sharp objects
  • When taking items from the oven or stovetop, use caution.
  • Before eating, make sure the dish is properly cooked.
  • By not eating too quickly, you can avoid heartburn and indigestion.

Sacred Heart Emergency Center wishes you a safe and enjoyable Valentine’s Day. If you need a little more help that day, we’re open seven days a week and don’t require an appointment or a Valentine’s Day card for our doctors.