As every supermarket in town begins to fill with red roses, chocolate-covered strawberries, and an invisible sign that reads: “To be happy, you must be in love,” it makes sense for love and relationships to be on the mind.

Why does Valentine’s Day seem to have the power to genuinely make people feel crummy?

Mahatma Gandhi said, “Your beliefs become your thoughts, your thoughts become your words, your words become your actions….” If a young person believes they must be in a relationship to be happy, then when they’re single, their thoughts might be: “I’m unlovable, I’m unhappy, I’m not good enough.”

This could lead to unhealthy relationships or having low self-esteem and confidence.

A young person who has a strong sense of independence and intrinsic self-worth is resilient and can confront adversity in their life. Dating can be a great way for young people to learn about communication, conflict resolution, heartbreak, and boundaries.

It’s important for teens navigating dating to remember their value and worth outside of the relationship. Of course dating can also lead to adversity, which can either cause teens to crumble or make them stronger. This all depends on their attitude and coping strategies. Challenges like breaking up are why it’s important for adolescents to have the skills to use setbacks as building blocks to overcome adversity.

Quick Tips for Healthy Dating

DO know your worth

DO set healthy boundaries

DO focus on communication

DON’T forget your friends

DON’T lose yourself 

Grant Halliburton Foundation’s outreach and education team facilitates presentations in schools across North Texas, teaching young people to view adversity as an essential tool in their social and emotional development and foster a mindset of confidence and independence.

By Cami Fields, Director of Outreach and Education