02/14/2026
Dear UTCC Community,
Valentine’s Day can function as a predictable emotional and psychological stressor that exacerbates loneliness, perceived inadequacy, grief, and anxiety, particularly among participants who are single, recently separated, bereaved, or experiencing financial strain.
At Urban Trauma Counseling Center, we want you to know that whatever you’re feeling is okay. It’s normal for emotions to feel stronger around holidays. If you are grieving, your grief makes sense. If you feel disappointed, left out, or emotionally tender, that too is understandable. You are not behind in life, and you are not alone in your experience.
We encourage you to take care of yourself in ways that match your values, stay connected to supportive people in low-pressure ways, and consider limiting social media if it makes you feel worse. If you’re struggling, please reach out for help. You can contact your therapist or someone you trust. If you need immediate support, you can call or text 988 anytime for free, confidential crisis support in Maryland.
If today feels especially heavy, you might also consider:
Naming what you’re feeling without judging yourself.
Creating a simple plan for the day so you are not isolated.
Doing one nurturing activity just for you.
Focusing on the “next right thing” instead of the whole picture.
Contact us to make an appointment with your Therapist or Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner.
Please remember: today is not a measure of your worth, your desirability, or your future. You are deserving of love, stability, and meaningful connection—on February 14th and every day.
With care and support,
Shinelle Oglesby, LCPC
CEO
Urban Trauma Counseling Center
