Valentine’s Day can be a stressful time for some people, especially those who may feel triggered and have experienced difficulty with addiction or poor mental health. For those struggling with depression, anxiety, or other mental health issues, Valentine ’s Day can be overwhelming and a reminder of loneliness and isolation.

Some people may feel that they don’t have anyone to celebrate the day with, and this can be a difficult realisation. To help those struggling with poor mental health or addiction, it’s important to reach out for support, talking to a friend or health care professional can provide much needed support and help to cope with difficult emotions.

Overcoming those Valentine’s Day Triggers:

  •  If you and your partner used to celebrate Valentine’s Day with alcohol or drugs, try to come up with new rituals that don’t involve substance use. Consider activities like going out to dinner, going for a walk, or having a romantic picnic.
  • Reach out for support: If you’re feeling overwhelmed or tempted to use, reach out to a trusted friend, family member, or sponsor. Talking to someone who understands your struggles can help you stay on track.
  • Avoid temptation: Avoid places where you’re likely to be exposed to substance use. This could include bars, parties, or other social gatherings where alcohol or drugs are present.
  • Practice self-care: Take time to do activities that make you feel good, such as exercising, meditating, or spending time in nature. These activities can help reduce stress and cravings.
  • Celebrate in other ways: Instead of focusing on Valentine’s Day as a celebration of romantic love, consider celebrating other forms of love, such as friendships and family relationships.
  • Lastly, it’s important to remember that Valentine’s Day is just one day and it doesn’t have to be perfect. It is also a time to recognize the importance of friendship and family.

How Steps Together can help you or a loved one

At Steps Together our purpose is to ensure that we secure lasting recovery and improved health and wellbeing for all those affected by poor mental health or addiction, by providing confidential, discreet therapy programmes, or clinical treatment and care through our UK based range of residential treatment centres, or outpatient services.

For a free and confidential discussion with our expert treatment advisors, contact us today on: 0330 175 7031

For further information about our private residential services please  click here . For information about our Outpatient Services read more here.