BEAT THE VALENTINE'S DAY BLUES
‘All you need is love’ according the famous Beatles song but what about those who plan to spend their Valentine’s Day void of romance?
- Clinical psychologist Associate Professor Gavin Beccaria says singles may feel sad, lonely or depressed on days like Valentine’s Day but there are ways to help protect their mental health. Media contact: Rhianwen Whitney 0427 428 380 and Sarah Green 0417 799 331
SWEET LIKE CHOCOLATE
- Flowers and chocolate are quintessential Valentine’s Day items. According to scientists, when you bite into your favourite chocolate block a chemical is released into your brain that may help you fall in love.
Biochemist Dr Mark Lynch says chocolate is a rich source of theobromine, cacao-based stimulant. Media contact: Rhianwen Whitney 0427 428 380 and Sarah Green 0417 799 331
SAINT VALENTINE, PATRON SAINT OF LOVERS
How exactly did we come to celebrate a 3rd-century Roman saint each February? Historians say it’s somewhat of a mystery, mixing elements of both ancient Roman rites and Christian tradition.
- Associate Professor Marcus Harmes says one of the tales goes back to third century Rome, where a priest named Valentine performed secret marriages to young lovers after Emperor Claudius II ordered men to stay single as he needed them for battle. Media contact: Rhianwen Whitney 0427 428 380 and Sarah Green 0417 799 331
