Above all, take care of yourself and don’t hesitate to reach out for help if you need it. On one hand, recovery is possible, and many people with alcoholism are able to achieve sobriety and live healthy, fulfilling lives. On the other hand, not everyone with alcoholism is able to change, and it’s important to be realistic about your partner’s chances of recovery. If you don’t control codependency, it can lead into more serious complications such as obsessive behavior, blame, and mental health issues. Treating alcoholism isn’t easy, and it doesn’t always work the first time around.
On the other hand, if you decide to stop drinking while your partner is in recovery, it could send Mixing Alcohol & Accutane Effects & Dangers ARK Behavioral Health a powerful message of support and solidarity. It could also make it easier for them to avoid temptation and focus on their own sobriety. Dating or being married to someone who struggles with alcoholism can be incredibly challenging and stressful. Alcoholism can impact every aspect of a relationship, from communication to intimacy to shared responsibilities.
This can lead some people to wonder why people who are susceptible to addiction drink. The challenge of this stage is to essentially develop and maintain healthy life skills that will serve you for a lifetime. An exciting part of this period is that it can lead you to a happier life full of welcomed change and constant improvement.
Do personality traits cause addiction, or does addiction distort personality?
There may come a point where walking away becomes necessary for your own well-being. Recognizing the signs that it’s time to leave and understanding the importance of personal well-being are crucial aspects to consider. You may feel like you’re the only one going through this, but you’re not alone. It’s estimated that approximately 15 million people in the United States struggle with alcoholism, and their loved ones are affected too. They say that insanity is doing the same things over and over again, expecting different results.
- If your partner has been struggling with alcoholism for a long time, or if they have experienced serious consequences as a result of their drinking, it may be more difficult for them to recover.
- You might feel helpless, alone, or even responsible for their addiction.
- While it’s up to the person to willingly start their sobriety journey, you can also help.
- The condition, which is sometimes called wet brain, is characterized by eye movement disorders, loss of muscle coordination, confusion and memory issues.
Stage 4: Action
Living with someone who has a drinking problem can be stressful and unpredictable. The alcoholic may become aggressive, abusive, or moody when under the influence, leading to arguments, fights, and even violence. This can cause anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues for the partner.
Treatment Services
Timmen L. Cermak, MD, is a psychiatrist who specializes in addiction medicine. He is the author of numerous books, including From Bud to Brain and Marijuana on My Mind. Despite taking full blame for his failures and self-destruction, he felt it was impossible to change.
It’s not a choice or a moral failing, but a complex and chronic condition that affects the brain and the body. Alcoholism is characterized by a physical dependence on alcohol, as well as a compulsion to drink despite negative consequences. People with alcoholism may experience a range of symptoms, from withdrawal symptoms when they try to quit drinking, to blackouts, to relationship problems and other negative impacts on their lives.
While it doesn’t cause major or noticeable shifts for everyone, some people can seem completely different compared to when they’re sober. The first step is to talk openly and honestly with your partner about your concerns. Try to approach the conversation in a non-judgmental way, expressing your love and concern for their well-being. Encourage them to seek help, but understand that they may not be ready or willing to do so right away. For more information about alcohol’s effects on the body, please visit the Interactive Body feature on NIAAA’s College Drinking Prevention website.