For any couple, addiction can be one of the worst situations they will face together. Millions of couples who have to deal with an addicted spouse or significant other ends up breaking up over it. Many hang on during the recovery period for as long as they can, but they end up parting ways because they can’t continue dealing with the stress. However, if you are the addict in the marriage but are in recovery, you will need the support of your significant other the entire time. However, do they need to be the biggest part of your recovery support team? Should you rely on them day and night? Read on to learn more.
Recovery and your spouse- what to expect
When you enter into recovery, you do it for yourself. You should never do it “for” someone, although wanting to make your life better in order to enjoy your family and friends is important. As the spouse of an addict, your role is not to get them sober. Your role is to help them get to a time and place where they want to be sober on their very own. No one can force a person to quit using, no matter what the circumstances. Every addict will have to make the ultimate decision to take that step. You may play a huge role when it comes to them getting clean, but you won’t and shouldn’t be the deciding factor.
Is it okay to rely on your significant other for support?
Of course it is. If you don’t have support in your home, then you will be at a greater chance of relapse for sure. Your loved one should encourage you to go to rehab and get clean, and they should not be using drugs or alcohol themselves. If they are, and they don’t want to change with you, then you will have a much harder time sticking to your recovery plan when you come home. Your significant other does need to be a huge part of your support team.
With that said, they do not necessarily need to be the biggest part of your recovery support team. Remember, you are getting clean for you, not anyone else. They should provide you with the support you need, but you will still have a great chance at recovery if they aren’t your number one supporter.
Putting together a support team during recovery
It’s very important to have a consistent support team you can rely on during your recovery efforts. While you are in rehab, you’ll have your therapists and fellow patients to talk to about your concerns and fears. However, you will need to have more support once you are done with that particular environment. Your spouse or significant other should be one of them for sure. But you will also need to have additional support, such as friends, close family members, and co-workers.
While it is important to have people you know to support you during this time, it is just as important to have an impartial place to go for additional support. For example, consider local Alcoholics Anonymous meetings if you are in recovery for alcohol abuse, or Narcotics Anonymous meetings if you are in recovery for drug abuse. You’ll be able to freely talk about your concerns and feelings in a supportive environment without worrying you are relying on your loved one too much.
Remember, even the most supportive spouse or friend can get burned out after a while. It doesn’t mean they don’t love or care about you. It just means that you may need to give them a break from being your sounding board. Don’t take it personally if your loved one feels this way from time to time.
Online support groups can also help
If you need additional support during this trying time, consider turning to online support groups. Check social media pages to find groups that you can freely talk about your recovery in. You’ll be shocked at how many groups are dedicated to drug and alcohol recovery, as well as groups dedicated to mental health concerns. Having another impartial place to go can help you when you don’t want to talk to your significant other for support.
Call us today to schedule an initial meeting
When you are ready to learn more about rehab and recovery, we are here to help. Call today at 833-820-2922. Let us put you on the path to recovery as soon as possible. We will always be part of your support team!