Valentine’s Day in Recovery

Red hearts, pink hearts, candy hearts, chocolate hearts, sugar cookies, love cards. Theres no way around it, you can’t escape it, Valentine’s Day is here!    If you’re  in a romantic relationship, spend time together and multiply your love for each other.  If you’re single, don’t despair, shower yourself with love and think about how far you’ve come, staying clean and sober.   No matter your current situation, this day can be fun and enjoyable, sober and all!!  Here are some tips to spread love and kindness this Valentine’s Day:

1. Send messages of love to those you care about, friends, family, coworkers, neighbors. Call, send a text, reach out and express how much they mean to you and how grateful you are to have their support in your life. The biggest gift you can give a loved one is that you remain clean and sober.

2. Start rebuilding damaged relationships. When in active addiction, you tend to focus on yourself and don’t realize how your loved ones feel. Relationships get damaged. On Valentine’s Day, take a step towards rebuilding those relationships that got damaged. Send a friend you hurt a valentines card or a short text expressing your appreciation and gratitude. Don’t expect a response, the point is to share how you feel. Remember, it takes time to rebuild relationships.

3. Spend time with loved ones. You are not alone in your recovery. Spend time with friends, family and those who are supportive. Go to a meeting, invite a friend or family member to Starbucks. If you choose to stay in, cook dinner for a friend or loved ones and reminisce on good times.

4. Take care of yourself. Take a bubble bath. Get a haircut. Get a manicure and pedicure (men, you too!). Pamper yourself. Celebrate how far you’ve come. Take a walk in the beach. Go on a picnic or to the movies. Try a new hobby. Rediscover life, clean and sober.

5. Volunteer your time. Volunteering is a great way to give back. Providing service and help to the homeless, poor or others in recovery is an important part of the recovery journey.

You can celebrate and enjoy Valentines while in recovery. Spread love today and every day in February specially to  family, friends and  those special to you. Happy Valentine’s day to all.

Author: Carmen Pineiro,LMHC

I am experienced in counseling individual's suffering from depression, anxiety, substance use, as well as those having relationship issues, and low self -esteem. My particular area of interest is with the LGBT community and those diagnosed with HIV.
In the therapy room, my first goal is to listen carefully to the individual sitting in front of me creating a supportive and comfortable environment to freely express themselves. Together, we will set goals for therapy and plan what will be accomplished in our sessions.  Your feedback is encouraged as this is the best tool to know if your goals are being met and progress is being made. View all posts by Carmen Pineiro,LMHC