Be wary of romance while you're in early stages of alcohol or drug recovery efforts

Valentine’s Day is upon us, which means you either avoid it at all costs or celebrate it with someone special. Either way, the day means something different for each person. And for anyone in early recovery from drug or alcohol addiction, Valentine’s Day often leads to bad memories or a longing to start a new romance.

Generally, health professionals recommend that people in early recovery from substance abuse wait about one year before pursuing a new relationship. Although this is not set in stone, it’s wise to remain focused on recovery to avoid relapse or difficult situations. Romantic relationships tend to happen with time.

There are real risks associated with relapse and accidental overdose. Dangerous opioids are found in numerous drugs. One study found the main drug compounds detected in samples from Boston were fentanyl (59.6%), xylazine (20.5%), methamphetamine (15.1%) and tramadol (11.4%).

There are both risks and benefits to being in a relationship while in recovery. If you are at a crossroads, and unsure what avenue to explore, there are practical tips and advice to consider.

Initially, you’ll want to assess your personal readiness for dating in sobriety. This may involve some self-reflection about whether you want to pursue relationships. Looking inward helps you determine your emotional stability and self-awareness to begin a healthy relationship.

Moreover, you'll want to evaluate your motives for dating. This will ensure they align with a genuine connection you are seeking and not simply filling a void.

Before entering the dating world, it’s a good idea to be confident in your sobriety, have a strong support network, and even a relapse prevention plan.

Set clear boundaries and openly communicate your sobriety and preferences once you feel comfortable. This could be done at any stage, but generally based on your comfort level with the person with whom you're engaging.

It’s generally wise to go alcohol-free or choose mocktails or alcohol-free drinks. It may seem challenging to select alcohol-free venues, as most places serve alcohol in some capacity, yet you would be surprised at what options exist.

Use your support system or consider sober dating apps, which are plentiful today. There are numerous sober communities where you can lean on and meet like-minded people.

Finally, prioritize your self-care and do not lose focus on your sobriety. As cliché as this sounds, there is someone for everybody. Remember, the right partner will respect your commitment to sobriety. Do not let one day a year dictate your feelings or coerce you into something you may or may not be ready for.

Jody Boulay is a mother of two with a passion for helping others. She currently works as a community outreach coordinator for DRS to help spread awareness of the dangers of drugs and alcohol.

This article originally appeared on MetroWest Daily News: Don't let Valentine's Day pressures disrupt your recovery efforts