A Valentines Day Recovery Message

For many Valentine’s Day is a day filled with renewed vows and invigorated devotion to the one we love, but for others it can be a painful reminder of lost affections and love that ‘used to be’. These painful memories can become triggers for some addicts in recovery and can lead to opening the door to possible relapse. We understand the cycle of recovery and relapse and have watched our clients deal with these difficult memories and holiday dates for 31 years. We are here to support all of the recovered addicts that we have helped and those who have not asked for help yet in dealing with heartache and loss.

What can you do to help you through these trying times?

1. Get a sponsor and call them.
2. Do not isolate yourself from others – get out and do something you enjoy or try something new. Surround yourself with family or friends or engage in an activity to ‘stay out of your head’.
3. Remember that you are not alone in feeling this way – open up to family or friends and you will find that almost everyone goes through these types of feelings. It is not about having them, it is about how you deal with them in a healthy way without using drugs or alcohol to numb the pain.
4. Go to a meeting and discuss your feelings with others who understand.

These are just a few alternatives and coping skills that you can use to see you through tough times. Remember the old saying, “It is better to have loved and lost than never to have loved at all.”

If you are struggling during the holidays – reach out.