Married to an Alcoholic: Supporting A Partner with AUD
It has also found that heavier drinking and drinking more frequently are risk factors for domestic violence. Being unsatisfied in the relationship also increases the risk that one partner who drinks heavily will assault the other. Other studies have also shown that a leading trigger for violence when one partner is drinking is an accusation of infidelity.
Be honest but emphasize concern for the individual’s health and well-being rather than listing personal complaints. Start drug detox at home with a strong support system, clear goals, and professional guidance from a drug rehab center in Brooklyn for a safer, effective recovery journey. Alcoholism is a disease, and the person who is drinking must take responsibility for their own recovery. When someone with AUD lives in your household, the rest of your family members can be at risk for negative effects. Some of the most common risks are the damage to your emotional and mental well-being.
In short, they might not feel ready to seek support until they begin to recognize the ways drinking affects their daily life and relationships. While it’s natural to feel upset as you experience the consequences of your partner’s drinking, Nelson encourages cultivating a sense of compassion for any pain they may be dealing with. The decision to leave a spouse who is struggling with alcoholism is a personal one.
How to Help an Alcoholic Spouse
It also brings out different characteristics, such as dangerous driving, violence against both men and women, and giving them an excuse to ‘defend their honor’ if such an occasion presents itself. 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. Your spouse may also engage in other risky financial behaviors such as making large purchases, participating in gambling, or even losing employment due to disruption in the workplace.
Signs & Symptoms of an Alcoholic
The Doctor Weighs In is a trusted source for quality evidence-based stories about health, healthcare, and innovation. If you suspect a family member is abusing alcohol, contact the admissions team at The Recovery Village at Palmer Lake today. The hero tries to maintain the appearance that their family is “normal.” The hero is normally seen as over-responsible or a perfectionist. There can be a lot of pressure on the hero to be the “golden child” which can lead to a different kind of struggle. The choice to leave any marriage is difficult, and only you can decide if staying or leaving is right for you.
What Is Considered an Alcoholic?
- “A therapist can help you navigate your thoughts and feelings about the relationship and explore your options for moving forward,” says Metcalf.
- A man or woman who lives with a partner with an alcohol use disorder may face any or all of the possible challenges in the present.
- According to the Foundations Recovery Network, up to two-thirds of cases of alcohol-related violence occur in close interpersonal relationships.
Learning to recognize the signs of AUD is an important first step, says Spotorno, because it can make it easier to identify when they may need professional help. The 8 strategies below offer a starting place for navigating your relationship with a spouse or partner who has AUD. Our free, confidential telephone consultation will help you find the best treatment program for you.
Studies have shown that almost half of people who began drinking before age 14 went on to develop an AUD by 21. Check out our blog posts and resource links for the latest information on substance abuse. This helpful tool lists rehab centers tootsie drug pink within the area where you can find professional help for your loved one.
Help Your Spouse Help Themselves
It’s important to remember that seeking professional help is a positive step towards healing and recovery for both individuals in the relationship. In therapy sessions, individuals can address their own needs, process feelings of anger, guilt, or sadness, and learn effective ways to communicate with their alcoholic spouse. Therapists can also provide guidance on setting boundaries and developing self-care practices. Living with an alcoholic spouse is undoubtedly challenging, but there are strategies and support available to help navigate this difficult journey. Living with an alcoholic spouse can be an emotionally turbulent journey.