Addiction and Relationships

It’s estimated that more than 23 million people in the United States are living with an addiction. Addiction can be either substance-related or a behavioral issue such as gambling addiction. While it’s easy to think that addiction only affects the person struggling with it, this couldn’t be further from the truth. Addiction affects not only the person struggling with it but those who are close to them.

An addiction can cause a great deal of strife and stress in a relationship. Addiction can create feelings of shame, guilt and anxiety in your loved one, and it can also cause arguments and conflicts within the relationship. Even if you don’t have an addiction yourself, it’s important to be aware of the effects it can have and how to best support your loved one.

The first step to understanding addiction and how it can affect a relationship is recognizing the signs and symptoms of addiction, which can vary based on the individual. Signs and symptoms of addiction include difficulty controlling the use of the substance or behavior, preoccupation with the substance or behavior, and continued use even when it causes harm. Addiction is a progressive disorder that typically gets worse over time if not treated, and it’s important to seek professional help if you believe your loved one may be struggling with an addiction.

It’s also important to understand the different types of addiction that may be present. The most common types of addiction are alcohol, drug, marijuana, opioids, tobacco, gambling and sex. Compulsive behaviors, like shopping or internet addiction, can also be present and can be just as damaging to relationships as more well-known substances or behaviors.

Once you understand the signs and types of addiction, it’s important to figure out how to best support your loved one. It’s important that your loved one feels supported and listened to during recovery and that they know you are there for them. One of the most important things to do is to try to educate yourself on the addiction and provide your loved one with adequate support during the recovery process.

Another way to be supportive of your loved one is to set boundaries with them regarding their addiction. It might be helpful to create a “contract” where you and your loved one agree on a specific set of boundaries and consequences should those boundaries be broken. For instance, if your loved one is struggling with alcoholism, they might agree to drink only certain amounts and in certain situations.

It’s also important to be aware that addiction recovery can take time and patience. Your loved one may need your support and understanding throughout the recovery process, and it’s important to be aware of any relapses or setbacks they may experience. As difficult as it can be, it’s important to remain optimistic and continue to offer your support.

Addiction is a serious mental health disorder that can have devastating effects on relationships. It’s important to have a strong understanding of the disorder and how it can affect relationships. Educating yourself and your loved one on the disorder and creating boundaries and support systems can help to ensure that your relationship stays healthy and free of addiction.