Addiction to alcohol and other substances is widespread and damaging relationships
nationwide. Couples struggling with addiction often discover that it’s having significant
repercussions on the health of their relationship. Learn how marriage counselling can help you
resolve addiction and restore your relationship.
What is Addiction?
Addiction is a severe mental disorder that develops when an individual becomes physically or
emotionally dependent on a substance or behaviour. Substance addiction includes drugs,
alcohol, and other forms of addiction. Behavioural addictions include gambling, shopping, and
sex. Regardless of the addiction type, they all have the potential to significantly damage
relationships to the point where couples see no other option but to divorce or split up.
Signs of Addiction
Addiction can be difficult to identify, especially in the early stages. However, there are certain
behaviours and signs that may indicate a person is addicted. Some of these include developing
a tolerance to the substance or becoming preoccupied with using it. Additionally, addicts may
become withdrawn or irritable when not using the substance, have cravings that cannot be
controlled, or display other destructive behaviours. If you are concerned that your partner may
be addicted to a substance or behaviour, it is vital to seek help.
Causes of Addiction in Relationships
There are many reasons for this, but one of the most common is that addiction creates a cycle
of dependency. People in relationships often feel like they need their substance or behaviour to
feel normal and are often afraid to reduce their reliance. A reliance on substances at the
expense of everything else will lead to problems in the relationship, such as fights, violence,
communication problems, infidelity, and addiction relapse.
How Addiction Affects Marriages
Addiction can have a devastating effect on the foundation of a marriage. Addicted spouses often
neglect their own needs in order to satisfy their cravings, and this can have disastrous
consequences on the relationship with the addicted person.
They may also become resentful and critical of their spouse, viewing them as either a failed
source of support or a breaker of promises. The addict may also become preoccupied with their
addiction, spending less time with their spouse, families, and friends and neglecting other critical
areas of their life, such as work.
Find a Marriage Counsellor with Specialties in Addiction
When looking for a marriage counsellor specialising in addiction, it is vital to find someone with
experience with the disorder. Additionally, the counsellor should be able to provide support and
guidance during both the early stages of recovery and long-term treatment. Addiction often
leaves a trail of destruction in its wake. Marriage counselling can help resolve these challenges
and reduce the chance of a relapse.
The goal of marriage counselling for couples dealing with addiction is to address the underlying
issues causing the pair to struggle with addiction and create a plan for long-term success. By
addressing these issues, you can create a healthy and stable relationship in which your partner
can enjoy a life of abstinence.
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