It can help to start by recognizing that terms like “alcoholic” and “alcoholism” are both outdated, inaccurate ways to describe alcohol use disorder (AUD). This shift in language reflects current awareness of AUD as a mental health condition, not a personal choice. It is important to look out for one’s own health and well-being, and that of any children involved, by leaving the situation if all efforts to help are ignored and the negative and harmful behaviors continue. Living with an alcoholic spouse can be an incredibly challenging and emotionally draining experience.
- Whether they’re a partner, parent, or friend, living with someone with active alcohol use can create turmoil in your life.
- AUD is a chronic (long-term) but treatable condition with available treatment options.
- But, these can also lead to lasting issues that a person has to cope with indefinitely.
- On the other hand, women are more vulnerable to addiction than men, and they become addicted more quickly.
- You can’t make your partner get help, and you can’t force them to change.
Taking Steps Towards Recovery
Being patient with yourself and open-minded to the symptoms of an AUD can help you face the truth. Many people with AUDs will have difficulty admitting they have a problem. Substance use disorders (SUDs) have such stigma in today’s society and people with SUDs want to believe they’re in control of their life. Admitting to an AUD would upend the mythology they’ve created for themselves.
No matter your background or expertise, your loved one will likely need outside help. For those who love someone living with an addiction, it is very difficult to sit back and let the crisis play out to its fullest extent. When they reach the point in their substance use when they get a DUI, lose their job, or go to jail, for example, it can be difficult to accept that the best thing they can do in the situation is nothing. If your loved one has become addicted to alcohol, was eminem an addict however, their brain chemistry may have changed to the point that they are completely surprised by some of the choices they make. If your loved one is truly dependent on alcohol, they are going to drink no matter what you do or say.
Set clear boundaries
It is important to remember that you are not alone and that there are resources available to help you cope. Remember to take care of yourself, set boundaries, and seek support when you need it. With time, patience, and the right resources, it is possible to navigate this challenging situation and come out stronger on the other side. Remember, taking care of yourself is not selfish but essential for your own well-being. By setting boundaries and prioritizing self-care, you can navigate the challenges of living with an alcoholic spouse while safeguarding your own emotional and mental health.
Sometimes people involved with people with AUD need help to behave in a less codependent manner. You’re affected from the time you wake up in the morning to the time you go to sleep at night. Still, when you know how to deal with your alcoholic spouse, life can become better. In fact, it may even lead to your spouse getting the help that’s needed to recover.
The dos of living with an alcoholic partner
If eligible, we will create a treatment plan tailored to your specific needs. If The Recovery Village is not the right fit for you or your loved one, we will help refer you to a facility that is. The addict is the person who is engaging in addictive behavior and becomes the focus of the family and main source of stress. In addition to this, consider support groups or sober living options. There are therapy options as well as 12-step programs such as Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) or Al-Anon.
They may no longer perform the roles they once did, and they can disrupt family dynamics. Sometimes, this high level of support, like dropping everything to help, results in an unhealthy relationship pattern called codependency. Partners of those with AUD may find themselves blaming themselves or making excuses for their partner. Building up a support network around you — along with reading advice on how to cope — can help you get through the most challenging times.
What Is Drug Detox Treatment?
However, certain things you can do may help relieve the pressure and, in some cases, also better help your loved one start their path to recovery. Learn about the warning signs, how to spot a problem, and what you can do if someone… Living with an alcoholic is traumatic, especially if there is serious abuse. Having boundaries avoids co-dependency and sets limits for your loved one.