Dealing with a spouse who is addicted to prescription drugs and alcohol is extremely challenging. Many addicts exhibit behavior when they are intoxicated that is not normal for them and creates stress, anger and fear in a relationship. If your spouse is suffering from a drug or alcohol addiction, it is important to keep yourself healthy and safe while trying to help your loved one.
Step 1
Research treatment programs and facilities in your area so that you can prepare a list of options for your spouse to get help. Call the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration's National Clearinghouse for Alcohol and Drug Information at 800-487-4889 for information on treatment options and support groups in your area.
Step 2
Make a list of specific examples of behavior and problems that result from your spouse's addiction. This will help you express your feelings and concern.
Step 3
Sit down with your spouse, preferably when he is sober, to discuss your concerns about his addiction. Speak calmly and gently, and refrain from yelling or saying hurtful things.
Step 4
Explain the treatment options available to your spouse. Encourage her to seek help, and assure her that you are willing to support her if she wishes to go through recovery.
Step 5
Offer to accompany your spouse to meetings for drug and alcohol addicts to show your moral support and your commitment to his recovery.
Step 6
Remove alcohol and prescription drugs from your home. If you need the prescription medication your spouse abuses, keep it hidden or locked away to remove temptation. Do not drink or take medication in front of your spouse.
Step 7
Refrain from trying to make excuses for your spouse's addiction or behavior, and do not run to her rescue if she gets in trouble with the law or at work. Allowing your spouse to experience the negative consequences of her addiction can encourage her to seek help, explains HelpGuide.org.
Tips and Warnings
- Look into counseling for yourself. Though your spouse may be the one with an addiction problem, living with an addict can be stressful and can create emotional and psychological issues that a trained counselor or psychologist can help you identify and cope with. Understand that recovering from drug or alcohol addiction can take a long time, and your spouse may not succeed on her first attempt.
- You cannot force anyone to seek treatment. In order for your spouse to recover, he must acknowledge that he has a problem and be willing to participate in a treatment and counseling program. Make a plan to leave the situation if your spouse becomes violent or abusive while taking drugs or drinking. Though you may want to stay and help your spouse, your own safety must come first.
References
- HelpGuide.org: Overcoming Drug Addiction
- "Canadian Family Physician"; Treating Alcoholics and Their Spouses: A Family-Systems Centred Approach; Rick Lebell; June 1986
- Knowledge Application Program: What Is Substance Abuse Treatment?
- HelpGuide.org: Drug Abuse and Addiction
- MayoClinic.com: Drug Addiction
