Married couples make vows to stay together through thick and thin and better or worse. When a spouse is struggling with addiction, those commitments can be put to the test. When a spouse is addicted to alcohol, it creates dysfunction in the marriage and significantly affects the partner, children, as well other significant loved ones. The stress felt by partners of alcoholic spouses can drive them to drinking and other drugs if the spouse’s alcoholism is not treated by professionals.
In this article, you will learn about the effects of living with an alcoholic spouse. You will also learn healthy ways to cope with an alcoholic partner, and you will learn the signs of when it is time to leave an alcoholic spouse. Don’t let alcoholism ruin your marriage and your life; call Thrive Treatment today and receive the evidence-based programs and support you need to overcome alcohol abuse once and for all. Call us today and begin the healing process.
The Effects of Living With An Alcoholic Spouse?
The effects of living with an alcoholic spouse can are often devastating. A study conducted by the University of Buffalo Institute on Addictions reported that nearly 50 percent of couples where only one partner drank more heavily would up in divorce. It is also estimated that 40 to 60 percent of domestic violence cases involve the use of alcohol by one or both partners. The effects of living with an alcoholic spouse are numerous and include the following:
Emotional and Behavioral Issues—partners and children of alcoholic spouses experience high levels of stress, anxiety, and depression. For spouses of alcoholics, they often feel they are to blame for their alcoholism.
Relationship Issues—another one of the major effects of living with an alcoholic partner is the strain on the relationship itself. Partners of alcoholics feel separated and disconnected, the drinking can spark heated arguments that may at times turn violent.
Health Issues—partners with alcoholic spouses experience health issues such as increased stress, high blood pressure, and even digestive issues.
Financial Issues—Excessive alcohol use can put a huge financial burden on a relationship. In addition to money woes, a spouse’s binge drinking can cause unemployment, and a couple may even have to consider filing for bankruptcy.
How Do I Cope Living With An Alcoholic Spouse?
If your spouse is struggling with alcohol abuse, how do you cope with the strain and find professional help? First and foremost, seek support through a therapist, a support group such as Al-Anon, a trusted friend, or a family member. These important people will provide you with emotional support and can point you to the resources needed to get help. Another important tip is to set boundaries and become less tolerant of their behavior. Communicate your boundaries to your partner when they are sober and remind them you won’t be bailing them out if they find trouble.
You also want to be encouraging and help motivate your partner to get help. While difficult, engage in active listening, be empathetic, and be open to what your spouse has to say. It is best to approach your spouse when they are sober and more receptive. Additionally, make your health a top priority. Practice good self-care and engage in activities that reduce your stress and help you feel better.
Should I Leave the Relationship?
You want to do everything in your power to get your alcoholic spouse’s help and restore your relationship. Despite all the right things that you do, there may come a time when you may consider leaving your spouse to save yourself and your family. One of the biggest signs is your partner shows no signs of stopping or seeking help. A second red flag is if your spouse is displaying behavior that is unpredictable and dangerous. These can include drunk driving, getting into fights, being hostile towards you and your family, and physical and psychological abuse.
A third sign that you may have to leave the relationship is that you are staying out of fear. This fear may be due to several things including child custody concerns, reactions of family and other loved ones on your decision to leave, money concerns, and being able to find a place to live. Additionally, you need to consider leaving if it is hurting your health and the health of your loved ones.
Thrive Treatment Can Help Your Spouse and Family Recover From The Ravages of Alcohol Abuse
When a loved one struggles with alcohol abuse, you and your family feel its devastating impact. To save your spouse, your family, and your marriage, you must find professional help. Thrive Treatment is Southern California’s premier treatment facility. Our evidence-based treatment programs help your spouse and family understand, address and overcome alcoholism. Our experienced and compassionate treatment staff will be with you every step of treatment providing the tools and support needed to transform, heal, and grow.
Call Thrive Treatment toll-free right now.
