Addiction as a Marital Problem

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It’s 2:00 am and you’re wide awake because your spouse is still not home. Situations like this can be overwhelming and anxiety provoking. Substance abuse can add an additional layer of distress to situations like this. If you or your spouse struggles with addiction this may sound like a familiar scenario. You may also be left wondering how much longer your marriage can last under these circumstances? 

Divorce and Addiction

Research shows that substance abuse is strongly linked to divorce. A study conducted by Amato and Previti in 2003* found drinking or drug use to be the third highest cited reason for divorce, preceded only by infidelity and incompatibility.

While one does not necessarily cause the other, there is no doubt the two are strongly connected. Addiction may impact your finances. Your family may become isolated from relatives and friends to hide the addiction and the problems that come along with it. The entire family may not struggle with substance abuse, though they all may be affected by it.

Addiction Hurting the Family

Drugs and alcohol can destroy relationships, lives and dreams. When there is addiction, your home can become a stressful environment for everyone. This may add another dimension to your marital conflicts making them more complex. Arguments can be more frequent because there may be more reasons to argue, financial problems, irresponsible actions leading to damages, even lawsuits. When you are in active addiction you may be more likely to neglect family, have problems at work, engage in abusive behaviors while under the influence, etc. 

The Value of Seeking Treatment

Admitting that you have a problem and abstaining from use are often the first steps toward recovery, but it can be exceedingly difficult without professional help. Addiction is powerful but you aren’t powerless. Recovery is possible. 

Seeking treatment that also involves your family can make a world of difference. This will not only help to give each member of the family an informed perspective, this approach will also allow for the opportunity to begin working toward the possibility of reconciliation.

Healing and Preventing a Relapse

Many studies revealed that problems do not dissipate after substance use has stopped. After recovery, many report experiencing a relapse on using behaviors before ever using again. This can include relationship problems, family issues, work stressors, etc. Due to relationship issues often being cited as a precursor to a relapse it can be exceedingly beneficial for family members to be involved in treatment. Marriage counseling or family therapy can focus on both the individual as well as on problems affecting the relationship.

Carolina Counseling Services – Fayetteville, NC contracts with licensed independently therapists who can help. Begin your journey toward sobriety and reconciliation. Call today to schedule your first appointment. 

*Amato, Paul R and Previti, Denise. People’s Reasons for Divorcing: Gender, Social Class, the Life Course, and Adjustment. Journal of Family Issues, Vol. 24 No.5, July 2003 602-626.

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