Alcohol Problems in Intimate Relationships: Identification and Intervention A Guide for Marriage and Family Therapists

We publish material that is researched, cited, edited and reviewed by licensed medical professionals. The information we provide is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. It should not be used in place of the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare providers. The constant agitation, drowsiness and confusion experienced by those suffering the effects of alcoholism are likely Top 5 Questions to Ask Yourself When Choosing Sober House to cause problems for anyone in a relationship with the sufferer. People who find themselves in a romantic relationship with someone struggling with alcoholism may end up making excuses for their lack of attendance or improper conduct at social functions. They may find their options for other social interaction limited, and this may further be compounded by financial troubles or other problems related to the incidence of alcoholism.

But this study was limited to couples in sub-Saharan Africa, and more research is needed. When paired with problems that can also arise from excessive alcohol use, drinking can sometimes negatively affect our relationships with the people closest to us. In addition to self-care, partners of those affected by alcohol addiction can intervene by helping them find rehabilitation services. While it can be challenging to convince a loved one to seek professional help, identifying how sobriety would benefit their lives can often help them take that first step.

What To Do If Alcohol Is Affecting Your Relationship

They can give you ideas and information on motivating your partner to consider getting help; these approaches are often very helpful in getting family members who are reluctant to seek help to ultimately enter treatment. A couple’s therapist can help you and your partner rebuild trust after alcohol abuse has damaged the relationship. Couples therapy sessions can also help you develop coping skills and find ways to manage stress without turning to alcohol. In fact, numerous studies5 have found that couple’s therapy effectively treats addiction on its own and as part of a treatment plan that includes other services, like individual counseling. Alcohol addiction can cause financial issues, which can ultimately destroy a relationship. If you’re spending significant time drinking or recovering from being under the influence, you might start missing work.

Is it possible to have a good relationship with alcohol?

Taking steps to improve your relationship with alcohol not only improves your health, but your friendships, work ethic, and everything else. By being mindful, setting goals, and creating a plan, you can develop healthier drinking habits. A different alternative is to practice abstinence.

For male partners in particular, perceived aggression by the partner may be interpreted as a threat to their masculinity or social identity generally and therefore require an aggressive response to reassert this identity. They’re often aware that their friends and family’s disapproval would prevent them from drinking or using drugs. Second, they may use illicit drugs or illegally obtain controlled substances. They might be worried about getting into legal trouble or getting others into trouble.

Codependency and Abuse

Alcohol is a powerful force on our society, our communities, our families, and our relationships. It is important to be acutely aware of alcohol’s presence in our life and its influence on our loved ones and to acknowledge it when we believe it is becoming a problem. Someone who struggles with alcohol addiction often starts replacing activities that they used to enjoy with drinking. They might find it difficult to experience positive feelings when alcohol isn’t involved.

They may also have difficulty developing trusting and close relationships with others, and this trauma can last well into adulthood. If you or someone you know is experiencing distress, therapy with a marriage and family therapist (MFT) can help. Our Recovery Advocates are ready to answer your questions about addiction treatment and help you start your recovery. If you have suspicions that alcohol misuse may be destroying your relationship, consider these signs and if you have general symptoms of alcoholism.

Often, alcohol abuse triggers secretive behaviors

Peaks Recovery is licensed to provide the highest level of inpatient and residential programming in Colorado. In addition to satisfying state criteria, we have further received the highest recognition from the American Society of Addiction Medicine (ASAM) for our 3.7 and 3.5 levels of care. One of the primary characteristics of addiction is that it becomes the most important thing in one’s life and everything else gets pushed to the side. Generally, depression and/or anxiety will come first, and a substance use problem develops from self-medicating their symptoms.

This knowledge can help you better understand your loved one’s condition and why they may behave in certain ways. It can also give you insight into how best to communicate and support them. Contact us now to speak with an admission specialist about treatment options. It hijacks the reward pathways, reinforcing the behavior that created such an enjoyable reaction. This can wreak havoc on your body, mind and emotions because you feel as though you’re dealing with a stranger. Your central nervous system is activated in the same way it is when it warns you of danger.