However, a relapse should not be viewed as a failure but a temporary setback on the path to full recovery. Doctors may also prescribe medication like disulfiram and acamprosate to help stop or reduce drinking and prevent relapse. These drugs may be used alone or together with how to live with an alcoholic counseling or therapy. If any suggestion to reduce or stop drinking sets them on edge, or they make excuses for their behavior, it may be a sign of a drinking problem. Even when they set a limit to the amount of alcohol they’ll consume, they find that they cannot keep to it.
Al-Anon can also help you support your child’s recovery in a constructive and healthy way. While it’s important to show care and concern, you shouldn’t be responsible for all their behavior. Instead, you should detach yourself from the situation and allow them to understand the consequences of their actions. You don’t want to stir negative https://ecosoberhouse.com/ feelings, which might cause them to retreat further into alcohol addiction. Working with a therapist who understands alcoholism and the toll it takes on families and who knows how to help those who are codependent is very helpful to people living with alcoholics. Many people living with alcoholics participate in individual therapy.
Your partner’s drinking doesn’t mean they want to hurt you or don’t care about you. Seek support from friends, other family members, or a mental health professional. If this is the case, consider discussing the underlying issue as well as treatment options with your partner.
We publish material that is researched, cited, edited and reviewed by licensed medical professionals. The information we provide is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. It should not be used in place of the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare providers. Approximately 2.7 million married couples in the United States are impacted by alcoholism due to an alcoholic partner. Having an alcoholic spouse can lead to a number of negative consequences, such as mental health issues, job loss, domestic violence, and financial struggles. Alcoholism brings severe challenges to not only the affected person but to their spouses and any other person living with them.
Being drunk is no excuse for bad behavior, and you must make this fact clear to your spouse. Set strict boundaries, and never tolerate unacceptable actions, especially if children are involved. If your partner is willing to get help, help them find counselors, therapists, and support groups. During an intercession, let your statements be concise and avoid preaching. You should be ready to reply to questions that may allay the fears of your partner concerning the recovery process. Avoid forcing treatment at all costs as they work when a person wants to of on their own accord.
So, it is important to assess the problem to know whether you should seek help for them or remove yourself from the situation. Having support from other family members and spouses of alcoholics can shift the focus back to your own health, well-being, and needs. At The Recovery Village, we know how challenging it can be to cope with having an alcoholic spouse. We believe in involving the family in a recovering person’s treatment process, and we can offer the support you need. To learn more about how to get help for your loved one, contact us today to discuss our treatment programs.
