This blog was written by the Community Outreach Coordinator. Editing by Alisha Ostberg and Oluwaseun Ayodeji Osowobi.
Is That “Love” in the Air or Are You Just Happy to See Me?
February always brings to us the annual day of LOVE, also known as Valentine’s Day, and romance for many but certainly not for all. The often-overwhelming deluge of items to show another just how much you love them hits the shelves and media outlets with candy, cards, flowers, jewellery, and dinners out; you get the point of that arrow.
Cupid’s Capitalism: Love or Just Clever Marketing?
I call this the consumerism side of Valentine’s Day, but what about the more personal, romantic and intimate side?
For those moments of intimacy and romance, whether a new or long-term relationship, there is the need to love yourself first as much as your partner(s), so I wanted to share some thoughts on a Valentine’s Day LOVE check with folks and how SafeLink Alberta can support folks in a non-judgmental and person-centred environment of respect and confidentiality.
Love Thyself First: The Most Important Relationship
Before diving into romance, take a moment to check in with yourself. How do you feel about your relationship(s)? Do you feel respected, valued, and safe? The best way to love others is by ensuring you’re prioritizing your own well-being, too.
Love Should Feel Like Home, Not a Horror Movie
Is the relationship you are in or starting a “healthy and respectful” one? This is a critical component of any healthy relationship. If you are experiencing challenges, threats or feelings of being controlled, there are agencies and supports we can connect you to. There should be NO FEAR in healthy relationships.
Trust Is the Love Language That Matters Most
Do you feel safe and trusting of the person(s) you are with? Like “healthy and respectful” is the sense of safety and security within a relationship. Trust is a critical key that takes time to build and only a moment to destroy.
Trust Is the Love Language That Matters Most
Is the relationship monogamous, polyamorous, anonymous or open with boundaries and understanding of boundaries? Building on the “trust” of the previous point, it is important to know the boundaries, limitations, and expectations of the relationship that people have agreed upon and understood.
Love, But Make It Science: Know Your Sexual Health Status
Have we been tested for STBBIs before venturing into the more physical intimacy of a relationship to know your sexual health status? Many STBBIs show few, if any, symptoms and can be easily missed even while present and transmittible. Any intimate relationship should include regular STBBI testing at least once a year and ideally every three months if the relationship is open and active. Know your status in advance and test regularly to reduce the chance of STBBI transmission and infection of yourself and potential partners.
Get Tested:
Love, Substances & Safer Choices
Are there substances being used to enhance sexual activities that may or may not have a positive or negative impact on the relationship? We know that prescription and over-the-counter medications are available and can have some adverse side effects. There are also several other substances, alcohol, poppers, marijuana, and chemsex, aka Party n Play, which are part of some folks’ relationships and sexual preferences, and we can provide information, resources, support, recovery options and safer supplies and support to reduce any associated harms.
Access Safer Substance Use Supplies:
Love Smart, Love Safe: Prevention Is Sexy
Do we have the tools, information and access to resources related to safer activities? Supplies, prevention, testing, and treatment to reduce any harm associated with our activities? SafeLink provides access to informational resources, safer sex and consumption supplies, and access to testing, treatment and prevention of STBBIs in a professional and non-judgmental way that respects your choices.
A Love Letter to YOU: Respect, Protection & Care
As Valentine’s Day 2025 approaches, remember these necessary things: love and respect yourself and your partner(s), protect yourself and others from STBBI by regularly testing for STBBI and use the many FREE and accessible prevention options from us here at SafeLink Alberta. Check our website, safelinkalberta.ca, for information and resources available to you.
With LOVE – MR, Community Outreach Coordinator