Addiction Support 101: 4 Ways To Help When Your Partner Is Addicted
An addiction can be a drain on any relationship, eventually destroying it if not discovered and brought under control. It doesn’t matter if its alcoholic or drug-induced: the effects are the same. Addiction will quickly lead to a breakdown in trust and communication between partners – leaving a trail of fights, tears, and sometimes domestic violence in its wake.
Often, the hardest part for loved ones is knowing how to support and empathize with their romantic partner effectively. While emotions are running high and nerves are edgy during periods such as this, there are sensitive and practical ways to support your partner through his or her battle with substance abuse.
Here are four practical ways to support your partner’s battle with addiction.
Contents
#1. Get Treatment
The first thing you need to do is book your partner in for treatment. Most addicts are usually either in denial or ashamed of the stigma of checking into a treatment center or home. This is where you need to be very empathetic and understanding. Getting treatment early on reduces the likelihood of a prolonged battle.
While getting into a treatment center doesn’t mean the battle is over, it at least is the beginning of a long journey back to sanity and clean habits. Centers such as www.addictionva.com are a great opportunity to kickstart the journey towards a clean body and mind.
#2. Find a Support Group
After securing a treatment center, the most crucial thing to do is find a support group. Don’t make the mistake of assuming your partner can fight this battle alone. There is strength in numbers. And you would be surprised at how much easier it is knowing your partner can count on others with similar experiences.
There are various types of groups – some offer support and guidance, while others offer a chance to network and meet new people. A support group is healthy for family and friends too: signing up for support groups helps you cope with the shock or trauma of dealing with an addicted loved one. It also helps you learn how to empathize with your partner.
#3. Create a Recovery-Friendly Home
While it is unrealistic to create a completely addict-proof environment, you should be deliberate about your home once your partner is done with rehab. Ensure there is no easy access to a prescription drug with high abuse potentials, such as sedatives or stimulants.
It is also an excellent time to remove all signs of alcohol so that no bottle is visible or accessible. Even if your partner didn’t struggle with alcohol addiction, they could switch to booze as an alternative during the recovery process.
If you are finding it challenging to create a rehab-friendly space, you can consider a sober living home. Sober living homes are communities designed to encourage and support the tenants during recovery. It’s a healthy transition step they might need before returning to their routine.
#4. Take Care of Yourself
You can’t give what you don’t have. It’s easy to get sucked into the intense need to look after someone you care about deeply. However, it is crucial you also watch out for yourself. Focusing on your own mental and emotional well-being is essential to the sort of care you end up giving your loved one.
It also gives you the strength to deal with whatever the addiction recovery process throws at you.
Final Thoughts
Dealing with an addiction is never easy, but it can be done. Making the right decisions quickly will go a long way throughout this arduous journey.
