When someone in your life is misusing alcohol, it can be difficult to recognize that they have an issue. Individuals with alcohol addiction develop the skill of hiding their negative habits and learning to disguise the effects of their drinking. However, once you identify that a loved one has an alcohol misuse issue, it can be challenging to understand what to do and how to help them. When your spouse has an alcohol use disorder, their struggles affect not only them but you and your family as well. Watching someone you love grapple with addiction can feel debilitating. However, there are actions you can take to help you and your spouse deal with the effects of their drinking.
At Harmony Haus, we understand how alcohol addiction can harm the entire family, not just the individual. Encouraging your spouse to seek professional help is not always easy since people with addiction can be in denial about their struggles. However, proper treatment and a sober living program can give them the best chance at lasting sobriety. Harmony Haus will provide a personalized treatment plan for your spouse that will consider their unique needs and circumstances. For more advice and guidance on how to deal with an alcoholic spouse, contact us at 877.349.1544.
Signs of Alcohol Addiction
Recognizing the signs of alcohol addiction in a loved one can be the first step toward their recovery. Here are some of the most common indicators that someone may be struggling with alcohol addiction:
- Increased tolerance to alcohol – The individual may need to consume larger quantities of alcohol to feel the same effects.
- Withdrawal symptoms – They may experience symptoms like shaking, sweating, and anxiety when they try to stop drinking.
- Neglected responsibilities – Work, school, or family obligations may be neglected due to alcohol use.
- Continued use despite negative consequences – Even when alcohol use is causing problems in their personal or professional life, the individual continues to drink.
- Loss of interest in hobbies or activities – The individual may lose interest in activities they once enjoyed, and their world seems to revolve around alcohol.
If you observe these signs in your spouse, it’s essential to encourage them to seek professional help. Harmony Haus can provide an environment conducive to recovery, offering a comprehensive, personalized treatment plan and a supportive community.
How to Help an Alcoholic Spouse
Alcohol addiction is a chronic condition characterized by uncontrollable drinking and an extreme preoccupation with alcohol. Individuals develop a physical and psychological dependence on alcohol, and they cannot manage their drinking. An alcohol use disorder not only impacts the individual but can harm their family and loved ones as well. If you have an alcoholic spouse, you are not alone, and there are resources available to help you.
Here are some tips on how to help an alcoholic spouse:
Educate Yourself
Learning about alcohol use disorder, withdrawal symptoms, detox, and treatment programs can significantly help yourself and your spouse. Understanding the recovery process provides empathy and a way to aid in decisions.
Offer Help and Support
It is critical to encourage your spouse to seek professional treatment. It is not recommended to try and quit without proper help. Suggesting treatment, counseling, or group sessions to your partner can encourage them to seek the support they need.
Talk to your Spouse
Please wait until your spouse is sober and calmly approach them with your concerns over their drinking. This can be a time to discuss how their excessive drinking is hurting them and negatively impacting you and your family.
Give an Intervention
This may not be the route for everyone, but staging an intervention is worth considering. Consulting with a professional about how to approach your spouse can ensure they listen to you and consider reaching out for support.
Living with an alcoholic spouse is extremely challenging. However, with the proper treatment and sober living programs, they can build a solid foundation for lasting recovery and wellness.
The Effects of Living with an Alcoholic Spouse
Living with an alcoholic spouse can have profound effects on your physical and mental well-being despite being easily overlooked. The impact is far-reaching, and it is crucial to acknowledge and address its detrimental consequences. It is not uncommon for individuals to struggle with feelings of guilt, self-blame, and exhaustion. People may fear that they have caused their spouse’s drinking or enabled it.
However, it is vital to remember that you are not responsible for your spouse’s drinking, and you cannot fix their issue. Enrolling in proper treatment and sober living programs, your spouse can find lifelong sobriety and live a much happier and healthier life.
Learn How to Deal with an Alcoholic Spouse by Calling Harmony Haus
Living with an alcoholic spouse can be emotionally draining and affect your relationship. At Harmony Haus, we understand the challenges you face while supporting your loved one’s recovery. We provide robust sober living services in Austin, TX. Our programs are tailored to each person to ensure members receive the personalized care and support they need. To get started on the recovery process, call our team at 877.349.1544 or contact us online to learn more about treatment options for your spouse.
