Addiction can cause untold stress on a marriage, and many spouses struggle to understand how to help an addicted husband overcome the many challenges related to drug or alcohol addiction. Short-term problems emerging from addiction include increased aggressiveness, withdrawal from enjoyable social activities and the exhibition of a generally uncooperative nature in many husbands. This can range from reclusiveness to outright physical aggression. The long-term risks can even be fatal. These include:
- Stroke
- Heart disease
- Lung disease
- Spread or contraction of HIV and AIDS
- Development of mental disorders
“…many spouses struggle to understand how to help an addicted husband overcome the many challenges related to drug or alcohol addiction.”-Projectknow.com
The National Institute on Drug Abuse reports that 40 percent of AIDS-related deaths are also related to drug abuse. For knowledgeable assistance with discovering the best ways for dealing with a drug-addicted husband or alcoholic partner, please fill out our secure and confidential contact form or call .
Intervention
Many husbands may feel ashamed or overwhelmed by addiction. Interventions allow you, loved ones, close friends and other family members to help a sufferer come to grips with his addiction. When looking for methods of how to help an addicted husband, carefully consider his personal nature. Many addicts may rebel against large intervention groups that do not represent those closest to them. They may feel ambushed or cornered and are unlikely to benefit from such a situation. A private meal and discussion with yourself or any other close loved ones may be preferential in these situations. Try to help your husband understand the impact addiction has on you and your family and overcome any denial about his addiction.
Locating a Treatment Center
Professional treatment centers offer a variety of different methods for overcoming addiction. Most employ doctors to oversee potentially dangerous detoxification and withdrawal periods, and many centers focus on social engagement and discussions with other suffers. Your husband may find himself more at ease around others who have experienced the same life-changing situations and more easily rehabilitate in these settings. The different methods used by different centers all take a specialized focus on how to help an addicted husband, and you should look for a center that best suits the personality and needs of your spouse. Fill out our contact form for assistance with making the best treatment choices for your loved one or call our confidential support line at for more information on treatment centers in your area that can help a husband who is addicted to drugs or alcohol.
Continued Support
Continual support during the treatment process helps to prevent relapse and foster stronger relationships between loved ones and recovering addicts. You, your family and close friends should provide both moral and emotional support to your husband as he works to overcome addiction. You may have to educate your friends or family on your choices regarding how to help your addicted husband and why his progress is so important. Work with doctors, nurses and support staff at treatment facilities to understand the various stages of the treatment process and what you can do to help prevent future problems related to addiction or alcoholism.
Additional Considerations
” You, your family and close friends should provide both moral and emotional support to your husband as he works to overcome addiction.”-Projectknow.com
The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration reports that alcohol contributes to one out of every 30 deaths worldwide. Drug abuse and alcoholism can dramatically shorten lives, and the wide variety treatment options can be daunting for spouses. Treatment centers can help tackle the most acute effects of addiction, but you should also consider any underlying issues that may have led to the addiction. Underlying psychological or mental health concerns may contribute to the chances of relapse in the future if they continue to be unaddressed. Many treatment centers offer counseling services to help identify these issues, and your physician may be able to recommend a counselor that suits the needs of your family or relationship.
Stresses in your relationship, work environment or other outside factors can also contribute to the possibility of relapse. For more information on how to help an addicted husband overcome these challenges and live a healthy lifestyle after recovery, call our 24-hour helpline at .
