Celebrating anything while going through recovery in an addiction center can seem like a challenge. At a Mississippi addiction treatment center like Woodland Recovery Center, you can still enjoy Valentine’s Day along with another day of sobriety. Call us today at 662.222.2989.
Valentine’s Day While in Inpatient Treatment
People who have substance use disorders may associate celebrations with alcohol or other substances. Facing a special day like Valentine’s Day can leave them unsure of how to celebrate in a positive manner.
Celebrating a sober Valentine’s Day while participating in residential or inpatient treatment can require a bit of creativity.
Whether you are single or have a partner, you want to share the love with others in the treatment facility. Creating fun cards or just leaving other patients encouraging messages can make a difference.
Valentine’s Day in addiction recovery can also include engaging in group therapy sessions to speak about past or present relationships that have impacted your life. You will be encouraging others to also speak about their experiences and giving your therapists a chance to delve deeper into your life.
Another way to celebrate a sober Valentine’s Day while being part of inpatient treatment is to write letters to loved ones. Let them know how much you care for them and how they have impacted your life.
Having a Sober Valentine’s Day After Treatment
If you have completed inpatient treatment and are easing back into your life outside of a facility, you have many ways of celebrating Valentine’s Day.
Practice Self-Love
Whether you have a partner or not, focus on self-love and self-care. Some self-care ideas include:
- Have a long bath
- Get yourself flowers
- Listen to your favorite music
- Go for a walk
- Watch your favorite movie
- Cook your favorite meal
For many people celebrating Valentine’s Day in addiction recovery, mindfulness can be important. Focus on the present and not on past relationships.
Go to a Meeting
If you find that celebrating is stressful or creates triggers, it can be important to go to a meeting. You can get the support you need there, and you will likely meet others who are also struggling with celebrating the day.
Distract Yourself
If you find yourself bored or stressed, do something that takes your mind off the day. Find an activity that keeps your mind occupied, especially if it is something that engages your senses and keeps you in the present. Go for a walk or call someone.
Avoid Social Media
If you are single, it can be wise to avoid social media on Valentine’s Day. Seeing other people post about their relationships can be triggering for many people because it makes them feel isolated.
It is a good idea to completely unplug from social media for the day and do something that is positive for your mental health, like journaling or going to a support meeting.
Ignore the Day
You do not have to celebrate Valentine’s Day if you do not want to. It is completely up to you if you want to go through the day as you would any other day. For many people, this can be extremely helpful.
Begin New Traditions
If you have negative experiences or unhealthy behaviors that you associate with Valentine’s Day, why not start new traditions? Do something healthy and fun that you can repeat the following year.
Enjoy a Sober Valentine’s Day at Woodland Recovery Center
If you have a substance use disorder, the best Valentine’s Day gift you can give yourself is to reach out for help. Woodland Recovery Center can offer inpatient as well as outpatient treatment options to help you get the exact care you need. Call Woodland Recovery Center today at 662.222.2989 or fill out our online contact form to begin your recovery journey.
