Five ways to beat Valentine's Day blues

DETROIT, Feb. 8 (UPI) -- A Detroit plastic surgeon, noting Valentine's Day can be depressing if one's not in a relationship, offers five ways to subdue the blues without nips and tucks.

Dr. Anthony Youn, a frequent TV guest and blogger at celebcosmeticsurgery.com, said for 26 years he hated Valentine's Day.

"Every Feb. 14 was a reminder that no one wanted to date me. I couldn't stand going to restaurants on Valentine's Day and seeing all the lovey-dovey couples and their romantic bliss," Youn said in a statement. "Some people escape from the Valentine's Day blues by binge drinking, overeating and self-medicating. These unhealthy behaviors usually result in feeling even worse the next day."

Youn suggested five healthy ways a single person can prevent the Valentine's Day blues:

-- Exercise. Studies show the endorphins, serotonin, and dopamine released during working out can improve mood.

-- Volunteer for the needy. Several studies have shown that volunteering for the less fortunate has beneficial effects on mood, health, and even life span.

-- Go to a funny movie. Psychiatrists have proven that emotions are contagious.

-- Travel somewhere sunny. Nearly 10 percent of Americans suffer from Seasonal Affective Disorder and February is the worst month. Sunlight can boost levels of serotonin in the blood, counteracting seasonal affective disorder.

-- Adopt a pet from a shelter. Several studies show that people with pets live longer, happier and healthier lives. If you're looking for unconditional love, this is a definite way to get it, and save an animal's life in the process.