Utilizing multiple resources on this list instead of just one can streamline recovery, as alcohol abuse requires consistent and constant care. While you may be hurt or frustrated by your spouse’s addiction and actions, it is crucial that you remain neutral or even positive when approaching your partner about their drinking. Being educated will additionally help you learn how to navigate these next steps your family is, hopefully, about to take. People who suffer from alcoholism may have a difficult time mingling with society. Or, if they do continue to socialize, they often need to excessively drink to feel like “themselves” or to comfortably attend events.
Strategies for Setting Boundaries
Worse, it might make them Twelve-step program feel humiliated, lonely, frustrated, resentful and angry. It strains your relationship further and adds another reason to drink. Attempting to detoxify your spouse on their own should never be done as the withdrawal effects of alcohol can be dangerous and it should only be done in a medical setting. Many people who struggle with alcoholism are reluctant to accept treatment on their own. This is why it is important for you to encourage him to seek professional help for alcohol addiction treatment if he seems hesitant to do so.
How Expensive Is Alcohol Rehab: Understanding the Financial Side of Recovery
You are not responsible for your spouse’s alcoholism, and while you can contribute to their recovery, it doesn’t have to take over your life. Our guide explains all you need to know about living with an alcoholic spouse and how to get help for yourself and your spouse. Maintaining a support network of friends, relatives, or a counselor can help you navigate emotional ups and downs. Setting aside time for self-care activities such as exercise or hobbies can lower your stress level.
Residential Treatment for Alcoholism
While this list is non-exhaustive, these are the most common signs that someone is struggling with excessive drinking. One study found that 20% of alcohol users had over $1,000 in credit card debt. Beyond the financial losses, there are financial costs measured by productivity loss at work from living with an alcoholic spouse hangovers and absenteeism related to drinking. Deciding to leave is hard, especially considering all the things you’ve likely been through with your spouse. It won’t be easy, and you may have second thoughts about whether it’s the right decision. My drinking put a terrible strain on our marriage and it was hurting us both.
