Open Heart Campaign Promotes Compassion and Support This Valentine’s Day

OSUS encourages South Carolinians to show stigma-free support for people in recovery

Recovery is strengthened by connection, compassion and support, and Valentine’s Day offers a meaningful opportunity to remind people in recovery that they are seen, valued and supported all year long. The South Carolina Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities’ Office of Substance Use Services (OSUS) is encouraging communities across the state to share messages of inclusion and encouragement through the Open Heart campaign.

“At its core, recovery is about feeling supported,” said Sara Goldsby, director of OSUS. “Valentine’s Day is a natural moment to remind people that compassion and understanding make a real difference and that recovery does not happen in isolation.”

The Open Heart symbol 💟 represents an open door and an open mind for anyone walking a recovery journey. It is a visible sign that support is available and that stigma has no place in conversations about substance use and recovery. Even small gestures, such as sharing the symbol or starting a conversation, can help people feel welcomed and valued.

As part of the Open Heart campaign, South Carolinians are encouraged to share the 💟 symbol on social media, talk openly about how communities can better support recovery, and invite businesses, schools and community organizations to display the symbol in their spaces for Valentine’s Day and beyond. These actions help reinforce the message that recovery-friendly environments matter and that encouragement should extend well past a single month or observance.

“Support helps recovery thrive,” said Dan Loffredo, recovery services coordinator for OSUS. “When people know they are accepted and encouraged, it strengthens their confidence and their ability to keep moving forward.”

Recovery resources, peer support and community connections are available statewide through Embrace Recovery SC at embracerecoverysc.com. Additional information about substance use services and support across South Carolina can be found at daodas.sc.gov.