Use direct, kind, and straightforward language. Treat your partner with empathy and compassion, and whether or not you have struggled with substance use yourself, imagine the way that you would want to be treated in your partner’s position. Know the signs.
Full Answer
Should I seek treatment for my partner’s Addiction?
But seeking treatment for an addiction might be the best decision your partner could make for your relationship. There are several key ways you can support your partner through their recovery. It may take some patience, forgiveness, and trust on your part. But in the end, your support can help them shed their toxic abuse patterns for good.
How can I help a substance-abusing spouse?
Practicing communication skills—paraphrasing, empathizing, and validating—can help the substance-abusing patient and his or her partner better address stressors in their relationship and their lives. These skills are also believed to reduce the risk of relapse to substance abuse.
Is your partner’s substance use harmful to your relationship?
There are several tell-tale signs that drinking or drug use by a partner is causing harm to the relationship to the point that help from a treatment professional may be needed. The following are some of the common danger signals often seen in couples in which a partner has a substance use problem:
Can a couple share a drug or alcohol addiction?
While it’s quite common for a couple to share an addiction to drugs or alcohol, treatment for substance use disorders has traditionally been offered on an individual basis. But that’s starting to change.
What do you do when someone won't go to rehab?
How To Get A Drug Addict Into Treatment If He Refuses To Go?Try To Get Them into Court-ordered Treatment. ... Don't Make Threats. ... Be Their Friend. ... Be Confident That They Need Help. ... Offer Your Support and Encouragement During Treatment. ... Be Encouraging. ... Offer an Ultimatum. ... Allow Them To Go Voluntarily.More items...
How does substance abuse affect your relationships?
As drinking or drug use gets worse, it starts to take more and more time away from the couple, taking its toll by creating an emotional distance between the partners that is difficult to overcome. These couples also report that they fight and argue a great deal, which sometimes can become violent.
What are the major factors that cause involvement in substance abuse?
Risk factorsFamily history of addiction. Drug addiction is more common in some families and likely involves genetic predisposition. ... Mental health disorder. ... Peer pressure. ... Lack of family involvement. ... Early use. ... Taking a highly addictive drug.
What is the most effective intervention for substance abuse?
CBT is often rated as the most effective approach to treatment with a drug and alcohol population.
What is the first step of the addiction cycle?
The first step to addiction is trying the substance. It can be as fast as taking the first drink or smoking a cigarette. Or, people may have used drugs in the past without developing a dependency, but are now moving on to a more addictive substance.
How does substance abuse affect mental health?
If you or someone you care about is chronically using drugs or alcohol it can lead to changes in the brain, which can lead to mental health issues including paranoia, depression, anxiety, aggression, hallucinations, and other problems.
What are six social factors that contribute to substance abuse?
Social factors that contribute to increased risk for adolescent substance use include deviant peer relationships, popularity, bullying, and association with gangs. Social influences and familial influences are often present simultaneously.
What are three factors that indicate addiction?
For example, some of the risk factors for addiction include: a person's genes, the way a person's brain functions, previous experiences of trauma, cultural influences, or social issues such as poverty and other barriers to accessing the social determinants of health.
Who is most at risk for substance abuse?
People who have experienced physical, emotional or sexual abuse or trauma are more likely to develop a substance use disorder. Others who have friends who use, or those subjected to peer pressure, may also be at a greater risk.
What are three options for drug abuse treatment?
There are many options that have been successful in treating drug addiction, including:behavioral counseling.medication.medical devices and applications used to treat withdrawal symptoms or deliver skills training.evaluation and treatment for co-occurring mental health issues such as depression and anxiety.More items...•
What are the 4 types of intervention?
Interventions are Generally Categorized into Four Main TypesThe Simple Intervention.The Classical Intervention.Family System Intervention.Crisis Intervention.
What is the best psychological treatment for addiction?
Behavioral therapy is perhaps the most commonly utilized types of treatment for addiction that is frequently used during substance rehabilitation. A general behavioral therapeutic approach has been adapted into a variety of effective techniques.
How Significant Others Play A Role in Addiction Recovery
Partners of those dealing with substance abuse disorders struggle with several sad realities that are all too common. These may include:
Tools to Aid Your Partner on the Path to Recovery
Stocking the home with non-alcoholic drinks, such as seltzer or mineral water, and making sure narcotic medications are out of sight and, better yet, out of the house, are examples of ways to help provide a home environment that is safer for your partner on their ongoing path to recovery and sober life.
How Couples Addiction Therapy Can Help
Grace Counseling has locations in Ft. Worth and Lewisville, Texas. At Grace, we see our patients as individuals. That’s why our expert team prides itself on customizing treatment to meet the individual needs of each of our patients. We treat a broad range of mental wellness and addiction issues.
Contact Grace Counseling Today to Rebuild Your Relationship
Addiction can take a huge toll on relationships, but that doesn’t mean it’s too late to make an effort to repair the damage. Couples addiction therapy at Grace Counseling in Fort Worth and Lewisville can provide the help you need to get your life back on track. We also offer other therapeutic options, such as:
What does it mean to cover up for a partner who is drinking too much?
On different occasions, having to "cover" for a partner who has been drinking or using drugs too much by making excuses for him or her, such as reporting to a boss or co-worker that the substance user is "sick" and won't be at work as a result. A partner reporting that he or she drinks or uses drugs to reduce tension or stress related ...
What does it mean when a partner drinks?
A partner reporting that he or she drinks or uses drugs to reduce tension or stress related to arguments and fights in the home about alcohol or other drugs. Drinking and drug use is the only or one of the few things the partners like to do together. Episodes of domestic violence, or "angry touching" by either partner when a partner has been ...
Can a partner get out of a downward spiral?
Couples in which a partner abuses drugs or alcohol have a very difficult time getting out of this downward spiral; fortunately, we also know of proven ways to help these relationships and, in the process, help the substance abuser recover. So, if you or your partner is having a problem with alcohol or other drugs, there is hope.
Can substance abuse and marriage mix?
It has long been known that marriage (or other long-term, committed relationships) and substance abuse don't mix. Having a partner who drinks too much or uses drugs is very much like throwing a stone into a still pond: the effects ripple out and influences all that is near. In the case of a partner who uses drugs or drinks too much, the effect is felt by his or her children, relatives, friends, and co-workers. However, many would argue that, aside from the abuser, the greatest price is often paid by the abuser's partner.
What is the role of a counselor in rehab?
During these sessions, a counselor will help you and your partner form new ways of expressing feelings and communicating effectively.
How to deal with addiction in a relationship?
Stay honest with each other. Be willing to talk about the tough issues with your partner – no subject should be off limits. Think about the way things may have been before the addiction started and what changes you would like to see in the relationship. Remember: changes cannot occur if they aren’t spoken.
What is Jeffrey Juergens's degree?
Jeffrey Juergens earned his Bachelor’s and Juris Doctor from the University of Florida. Jeffrey’s desire to help others led him to focus on economic and social development and policy making. After graduation, he decided to pursue his passion of writing and editing. Jeffrey’s mission is to educate and inform the public on addiction issues and help those in need of treatment find the best option for them.
What happens when you become addicted to alcohol?
When a person becomes addicted to alcohol or drugs, it puts immense stress on loved ones around them – especially their romantic partner. An addiction has the power to encroach onto romantic relationships, shattering the trust, intimacy and comfort that was once there. It’s completely understandable to feel frustrated, ...
How to help your partner in rehab?
While your partner is in rehab, Do take part in any visitation events held by the center. Do keep all conversations, in person or over the phone, focused on the positives. Do learn everything you can about your partner’s addiction. Don’t become too wrapped up in your partner’s treatment process. Be sure to give your partner some space ...
How long does it take to get sober in rehab?
With just 30 days at a rehab center, you can get clean and sober, start therapy, join a support group, and learn ways to manage your cravings. Learn More.
What does it mean to be isolated?
Suggesting to do activities that encouraged drinking or drug use. Having episodes of aggressive, volatile, or violent behavior when they drank or used drugs. Becoming isolated from you, their family, friends, and coworkers. Having trouble relating to you on an emotional, psychological , or physical level.
What can I do to help my partner with substance use?
You can suggest AA/NA, individual therapy, or rehab to your partner based on their individual preferences and needs, but if you get no traction with this, you can also suggest couples counseling, which may help you and your partner have a safe space to talk about substance use together.
Why does a man reject the idea that he is an alcoholic?
Yet, because the man is quiet and withdrawn when he drinks, he rejects the idea that he is an alcoholic, which he associates with being angry and loud like his alcoholic father. In cases like this and many others, people are aware that their partner has issues with substance use, but has no idea how to approach them about it.
How to reverse an overdose?
Some starter research points include: 1 Know the signs of an overdose and enroll in a Narcan (opioid overdose reversal medication) training course. 2 Learn about the biological (e.g., substances’ effects on brain changes) and environmental (triggers, peer influences, substance availability, etc.) underpinnings of addiction and the many different and varied pathways to recovery. 3 Stay up to date on the latest research in treating addiction and helping people recover. 4 Familiarize yourself with the proper terms and language (which avoids stigmatizing language) to better communicate and address your partner’s condition in an objective and constructive way.
What is addiction in the basics?
THE BASICS. What Is Addiction? Find a therapist to overcome addiction. The pathway to healing and recovery is often a journey that can progress over multiple years. Addiction not only involves the individual suffering from the substance use disorder, but their partner, their family, and their friends as well.
Why are immediate rewards important?
New research is suggesting that due to these changes in the brain, immediate rewards may be a more effective means by which to promote early recovery and your partner’s sobriety.
What is peer support?
Peer support groups can be a great resource for avoiding feelings of isolation; finding others who relate to your reality (and the reality of your partner); and engaging the processes of personal storytelling, connection, and guidance. Professional Help: Trained professionals in addiction are out there and ready to help.
Why do we need to be dependent on substances?
The brain and body become dependent on an outside substance to create feelings of happiness and well-being—and , at advanced stages of the disease , to simply maintain the ability to function. Compulsive behaviors and the need for rapid reward are likely to surface and intensify as the substance use disorder progresses.
What is the term for the occurrence of two or more disorders or illnesses in the same person?
Consider Co-Occurring Disorders. Comorbidity is the occurrence of two or more disorders or illnesses in the same person. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), the likelihood of a mental illness diagnosis doubles for individuals suffering from a substance use disorder.
Why is it important to set boundaries in a relationship?
Set Boundaries. It is important to set ground rules for your relationship, especially when you believe your partner may be developing or actively suffering from a substance use disorder. Boundaries are clearly outlined expectations or rules set forth so that both partners know what behaviors are acceptable.
How long does BCT treatment last?
Treatment can last from 30 days to nine months, depending on the individuals and the program, but couples can expect to attend between 12 and 20 outpatient sessions over a three-to-six month period during BCT. Couples rehab usually involves a mix of individual and joint counseling as well as group therapy. An important component of BCT involves the ...
What is couples rehab?
Couples rehab usually involves a mix of individual and joint counseling as well as group therapy. An important component of BCT involves the establishment of “recovery contracts.”.
Why do I end up out of sync with my recovery?
Also because recovery is a highly individualized process, even if two individuals begin their journey to sobriety in unison, they may end up out of sync through the various stages of recovery. A partner moving more slowly than their mate may end up feeling a sense of failure.
What is Amy's role in addiction?
Amy is an advocate for patient- and family-centered care. She previously participated in Moffitt Cancer Center’s patient and family advisory program and was a speaker at the Institute of Patient-and Family-Centered Care’s 2015 national conference.
What is a couples based treatment program?
Couples-based programs can seem like an enticing option when two people in a committed relationship decide to seek substance abuse treatment.
Is BCT therapy for domestic violence?
For all its promise, BCT is not advised in certain situations. Behavioral couples therapy should not be tried in relationships with a recent history of severe physical aggression. In those situations, a better course of action is referring the physically abusive partner to treatment for domestic violence while the other partner enters treatment for addiction.
Is it scary to go to rehab?
For many, the decision to enter rehab can feel scary and overwhelming, and it can be comforting to go through the process with their partner. If someone is struggling with the idea of being separated from their spouse or significant other during treatment, couples rehab may also provide that extra nudge they need to enter rehab.
What Are The Costs?
When Drinking Or Drug Use Is Harming The Relationship
- There are several tell-tale signs that drinking or drug use by a partner is causing harm to the relationship to the point that help from a treatment professional may be needed. The following are some of the common danger signals often seen in couples in which a partner has a substance use problem: 1. Many arguments about drinking or drugs use or th...
Can Treatment Help?
- There are many different treatments available that can be effective in reducing or eliminating problems with alcohol or other drugs. Some treatments involve individual counseling, others involve group counseling, and still others involve self-help meetings and support groups like Alcoholics Anonymous or Narcotic Anonymous. So, if you have a problem with drinking or drug …
But What About Our Relationship?
- Many treatments for individuals who have a problem with alcohol and other drugs will include the partner in some way. Research has shown that involving partners in the treatment at some point can be very important in helping the treatment succeed. It is also very important that the problems in the relationship be treated; these problems do not go away because the drinking or drug use h…