Valentine’s day is fast approaching, and thoughts turn to romantic evenings with that special someone. If you have recently completed alcohol addiction treatment, you may be nervous about celebrating with your love while remaining sober. It is possible to have a sober Valentine’s day and still enjoy yourself. In fact, you will find you have a more memorable time now that you are sober.
At Arkview Recovery Center, we offer alcohol addiction treatment in PA to residents ready to commit to genuine, long-lasting recovery. We help patients get through their addiction while teaching them coping skills to maintain their sobriety and create a positive mental outlook for their future. If you or a loved one is struggling with alcohol addiction, call 717.744.0756 today to learn more about how you can have a sober Valentine’s day.
Adjusting to Sober Living
After completing an alcohol addiction treatment program, you will need to make changes in your life to keep you on your sober path. Sober living does not have to be difficult when you surround yourself with the right people and lead a healthy life. When you choose to live a healthy, sober life, many people assume they will no longer be able to hang out with their friends who drink. They may think that they have to stay home all the time for fear of triggering their cravings. That is simply not true.
It’s true that you will need to make some changes in your life, like cutting out friends and family who are a negative influence. You will find that the coping skills and healthy habits you learn during treatment will prepare you for making other positive life changes. These skills will help you maintain your sobriety while still enjoying time with friends and family celebrating all of the important holidays.
Tips for Having a Sober Valentine’s Day
Your spouse or significant other is your biggest supporter for maintaining your sobriety. Often, couples will choose to begin leading a sober life together to create a healthy home environment. Make sure the person you will be spending Valentine’s day with knows you are sober and wants to remain that way. The right person will do all he or she can to help you stay sober.
Here are some tips you can try for having a sober Valentine’s day:
- Find a restaurant that doesn’t serve alcohol. Don’t give yourself the potential for temptation if you don’t have to. Plus, trying a new restaurant is perfect for those making major life changes. The more new experiences you enjoy sober, the easier it will be to maintain your sobriety.
- Go to a movie or musical. You want to be in a place where drinking is not common, which will engage you with something entertaining. Don’t fall back on your old stomping grounds where you have memories of drinking. That is one of the biggest causes of relapse for many patients.
- Do something during the day, then have a romantic alcohol-free night at home. Plan a fun day trip with your significant other or visit a museum or park where you can hike or have a picnic. Later in the evening, spend a quiet evening with your significant other, planning your new sober future together.
Before you go out, give your sponsor or sober friend a call for support and encouragement. Be open about any apprehensions and practice your verbal coping skills. Also, make sure to have their number on speed dial if you need more help.
Arkview Recovery Center can Help You Have a Sober Valentine’s Day
At Arkview Recovery Center, our alcohol addiction treatment program can teach you healthy coping skills that will allow you to enjoy a sober Valentine’s day. Through individual and group therapy, you will gain confidence in maintaining your sobriety in social settings, work, and at home.
Call 717.744.0756 today to learn more about our alcohol addiction treatment in PA to begin your new sober living journey.
Kyle is Lead Therapist at Arkview Recovery Center. He holds a Master of Social Work degree from Temple University and is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. He has years of experience working directly with individuals who suffer from addiction and mental health disorders. Being in long term recovery himself, Kyle is very passionate about the recovery process. He is heavily involved in the local recovery community in which he enjoys his commitments to service and giving back. His specialty is in group therapy and developing clinical staff. Kyle brings to Arkview a holistic approach to recovery, specializing in mindfulness, reality therapy, and solution-focused therapy.
