Self-Care and Community at the Heart of Recovering Connections Program

In recent years, the term “wellness” has become a buzzword encompassing everything from nutrition to fitness to mental health. For Jean Barrineau, Catholic Charities Boston’s new Coordinator of Recovering Connections, the true meaning of wellness, in the simplest of terms, is the deeply felt knowledge that one is never alone. 

Offering case management and support groups to family members of those struggling with substance use disorder, Catholic Charities Recovering Connections programs provides clients with a supportive space where they can learn about recovery resources in their community, share their experiences with others, and begin to heal.  

“So many people feel so isolated,” said Jean. “When they join Recovering Connections, it’s such a relief for them to realize that they don’t have to go at this alone. There is hope.” 

Having recovered from substance use disorder, and having a son living with bipolar disorder, Jean approaches her role with a deep sense of understanding and empathy. In addition to overseeing the Hope and Healing retreat for mothers who have children grappling with addiction, and the Growth through Grief retreat for those who have lost a loved one to the disease, Jean said she will be facilitating several virtual and in-person events this year that focus on the importance of self-care, strong mental health, and community.  

In January and February, mothers who have previously participated in the Hope and Healing retreat will meet on Zoom to share how they are doing and set self-care resolutions for the new year. The women will meet again in March for a one-day retreat at St. Joseph’s Parish in Boston. Jean is also partnering with St. Joseph’s pastor Father Joe White, a longtime advocate for addiction recovery, to plan a mental health awareness event this winter.  

These gatherings are designed not only to spread awareness and information, but to foster a sense of community and hope among participants. 

Jean says many participants of the Recovering Connections program have found solidarity, enduring friendships, and moments of healing laughter and joy through sharing their experiences and shedding light on the pain that surrounds the disease of addiction.“A lot of these women continue to connect throughout the year, and they have truly bonded with one another,” she said. n

In April, mothers who have participated in the Growth through Grief retreat will be offered a day of self-care and relaxation at a local spa. And this Mother’s Day, participants from prior Hope and Healing retreats will gather for a Recovering Connections luncheon.

“So many people with a loved one struggling with addiction get caught up in taking care of others. We focus on the importance of them caring for themselves before they can help anyone else. How can we help someone else before we heal ourselves?” 

January is Mental Wellness Month. To learn how you can support families affected by substance use and other clients in need, visit our Ways to Give page.