Addiction can impact every part of your life, even if you are not the one with substance use disorder (SUD). Being married to someone who struggles with substance abuse or addiction can be very challenging. The consequences of addiction can impact you and the relationship in many destructive ways.
If you are married to someone with an addiction, you may have complex feelings. Sometimes, you may feel angry or frustrated. Other times, you may feel anxious or sad. Watching your partner sink deeper into an addiction may make you feel helpless or isolated.
No one chooses to live with addiction. People with dependence on addictive substances are often unable to simply decide to quit using them. If your spouse struggles with addiction, they need comprehensive treatment and continuing support.
This article will detail some of the ways you can help an addicted spouse. You will learn:
- How addiction impacts relationships
- Ways you can support your addicted spouse
- How to encourage an addicted spouse to seek addiction treatment
- How to recognize addiction
- Where to find addiction treatment and recovery support
Contact The Best Treatment specialists to explore our holistic substance abuse treatment programs or to schedule an intake assessment.
How Addiction Affects Relationships
Drug or alcohol addiction can change a person’s thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. It can change the way people relate to others, cause mood changes, and affect their ability to function.
Addiction can be very destructive in a marriage. Some of the ways addiction can impact a marriage include:
- Dishonesty, hiding, and sneaky behaviors that erode trust
- Loss of connection and intimacy
- Shifting relationship roles: the healthy spouse may take on a caretaker role
- Increased risk of physical, sexual, and emotional abuse
- Loss of partnership
- Unable to plan for the future together
- Financial or legal problems
Living with an addicted spouse can cause stress to skyrocket. As the addiction worsens, the addicted spouse becomes more focused on drugs or alcohol. The healthy spouse may take on more household responsibilities, including chores, work, and caring for family members.
In time, drug or alcohol abuse becomes the foundation of the marriage. The healthy spouse may spend most of their energy attempting to care for the addicted person. Their own needs fall by the wayside as the addicted person sinks deeper into the condition.
Can I Make an Addicted Spouse Go to Rehab?
In most cases, you cannot force your addicted spouse to go to rehab. Some states have laws that allow family members to petition for involuntary commitment. However, this is not the case in most areas of the United States.
You may not be able to force your spouse to seek treatment for alcoholism or drug addiction. However, you can take steps to convince them to get help. Here are some of the things you can do to convince your spouse to go to rehab.
1. Learn about addiction
Learn as much as possible about addiction, treatment, and long-term recovery. Join Al-Anon (AA) or Nar-Anon (NA). Explore local treatment facilities. Understanding that addiction is a disease can help you support your addicted spouse during recovery.
2. Stage an intervention
An intervention is a carefully planned conversation involving an addicted person and their loved ones. During an intervention, family members express concern and love for the addicted person. Then, they ask the addicted person to go to a treatment center immediately after the intervention concludes.
Hiring a professional intervention specialist can help you plan a successful intervention. A professional intervention specialist will guide and support your group before, during, and after your intervention. They will also help you find local treatment options and community support programs. Their support will help you navigate this complex situation and make the best choices.
3. Set boundaries
Addiction can blur the lines between partners in a marriage. Roles and responsibilities can change in just a short period as one partner struggles with substance abuse or addiction.
Setting boundaries is critical. Work with a therapist or addiction counselor to determine your boundaries. Your boundaries may include:
- Not covering for your spouse at home
- Not making excuses for their behavior
- Continuing to work, engage in hobbies, and take care of your own needs
- Putting your own safety and well-being first
Working with a therapist can help you determine which boundaries would be helpful. It can also teach you how to communicate and enforce them consistently.
You must protect your own mental and physical well-being as you navigate this challenging time. Reach out to the specialists at The Best Treatment for guidance or support.
Find Treatment Now
If you or someone you love struggles with substance abuse or addiction, comprehensive treatment is crucial. Reach out to The Best Treatment specialists to explore our holistic detox, rehab, and recovery support programs.
