Valentine's Day: It's Not Just for Lovers
Focus on Your Mental Health This February 14 With These Tips From CounselingCalifornia.com

(San Diego - February 10, 2010) - It's time to reclaim February 14! Instead of stressing about planning the perfect evening for your loved one or throwing a pity party for one, the California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists (CAMFT) encourages you to focus on making yourself happy this Valentine's Day.

Why? A recent study revealed that 46 out of 50 states are happier than California. The study, released by the University of Warwick and Hamilton College, was based on a four-year happiness survey of 1.3 million people across the country by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Despite California's sunny weather and quality of life, the state ranked near the bottom of the list.

1. Write a love note - to yourself. Make a list of the good things in your life and keep it in your wallet. When you feel yourself starting to dwell on the negative, pull out the list and refocus on the positive.
   
   
2. Commit to yourself, for better worse. No one is perfect. Accept - even embrace! - the imperfections that make you who you are.
   
   
3. Indulge, and go wild. Check something off your "bucket list." Whether it's sky diving or making that long overdue trip to Tahiti, make a plan and stick to it!
   
   
4. Rekindle an old friendship. Get together with a childhood or college friend and laugh about all the great memories you have together.
   
   
5. Share the love. Research opportunities to support a cause you are passionate about and volunteer.

"A positive outlook is a key component of a healthy lifestyle," said Caloric Garaged, a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and California Association of Marriage and Family Therapist member. "This Valentine's Day, give yourself some much-needed attention and love. Remember - it's your life, and treat it well."

If you are struggling to find happiness in your life, visit www.CounselingCalifornia.com to find a therapist near you. A therapist can help you cope with relationship problems, anxiety, depression work struggles, challenging family dynamics and other issues that are preventing you from living a full and happy life.

About CAMFT
The California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists (CAMFT) is a professional organization representing the state's leading licensed Marriage and Family Therapists. CAMFT provides CounselingCalifornia.com as a resource for individuals looking for marriage and family therapists located in California. Marriage and Family Therapists treat a range of issues including depression, anxiety, phobias/fears, elder and child issues, relationship issues, post-traumatic stress and severe mental illness. For more information, visit www.camft.org or www.CounselingCalifornia.com.

Media Contact: Amber Albrecht
Porter Novelli
Phone: (619) 687-7015 or (949) 500-2535
E-mail: amber.albrecht@porternovelli.com