A relation between husband and wife should have to be like safe heavens with the homes offering shelter from dangers. Yet, couples with an addicted partner become the source of emotional upheaval, chaos and sometimes even violence. In 2017 only, over 4.3 million adults of age 26 or older suffer substance abuse, with 9.4% being men only.
Furthermore, drug abuse within a family is a problem that can hinder any healthy relationship as well as drive a wedge between the family members. It weakens the bond between couples and can also undermine trust. Additionally, if kids are part of the family, child abuse, fight over parents, and other conflicts are the result of drug use.
If the reports on the National Survey on Drug Use and Health are to be believed, there were
- Over 7.7 million adults between 18-25, only in America, are reported as the drug addict
- About 10.8% of adults between ages 18-25 to 6% by age 26 and more are binge drinkers
- Among adults with age 26, 6.6% of them are users of marijuana
- Approximately 4.3 million adults with age 26 and more are using prescription pain drugs, tranquilizers, stimulants, and other psychotherapeutic drugs.
All of these addicts are linked with some kind of a cohabiting relationship with the partners suffering from grave repercussions of their addiction. Whether it’s a domestic relationship, marriage or its, an informal living, substance abuse not only affect the one who is addicted, but also to the families of the addict.
Furthermore, when the addiction takes a toll on the marriage or relation, it's hard to imagine that you are living with the same person you once love. If you are living with the same, here are a few things that you can do if your partner is an abuse:
First, Educate Yourself About Addiction:
The same person you once have loved has now become an addict! Dreaded!
Addiction is a detrimental disease that hinders the addict's mind, body, actions as well as feelings. It arouses the feeling of resentment and can also impair judgment. In the worst case, this unmanageable thoughts can lead to physical abuse and sometimes even death.
So, to understand what the other person is suffering from, it is very important that you learn as much as about it. Know about the disease, read on the online information, talk to professionals from austin drug rehab so that you get a clear picture of the situation and the sufferer.
Accept The Situation:
Of course, addiction is painful; don’t take it as a stigma on your family. Yes, it is easier to pretend that they are normal and addiction isn’t a problem, doing so will worsen the situation.
However, facing it will help you take control of the addict’s health and wellbeing. Further, it will help you decide your next move so that they get the right treatment at the right time.
Learn More About Co-Dependent Relationships:
Addiction is not just about one person dealing with it. Instead, it’s a family disease that affects everyone from home. The more time you are with the person, the more you will be suffering. For instance, you might feel sudden panic attacks, fits of rage and getting obsessed over little things.
Further, people who deal with an addicted partner often find themselves in the codependency. Codependent relationships signify the extent of unhealthy clinginess, where one person doesn’t have autonomy or self-sufficiency.
Seek Help From The Connected Group:
As said the strength lies in numbers, the same goes with the addition! Although you might feel that you are alone in the situation, many people are suffering from the same.
Besides, there are many support groups that help you connect with the likeminded people. With them, you will feel less isolated and will be able to fight back with ease.
Stand Up For Your Partner:
Everyone is different and react adversely to the situation, which is why you have to decide whether to help your partner or to detach yourself from them.
Moreover, if the spouse refuses for the treatment, the negative consequences are more. So, whether it’s the financial boundaries, physical abuse or the verbal quarrels, set a limit that you will not compromise beyond them.
With all that said, you will see that the rewards of a healthy relationship and sober spouse outweigh all struggles. Just be prepared for the ups and downs and be supporting and encouraging!
Published by Janice Cook