Addiction is one of the most difficult and sensitive topics that spouses can face, especially since the disease is so misunderstood.
It’s not easy to tell a spouse that you are struggling with an addiction, especially when it comes to substances like drugs or alcohol. It can be even harder to admit it to yourself, let alone your partner, especially if you have been in denial for some time.
But hiding your addiction from your spouse isn’t the answer either. We will explore how to tell your spouse that you are an addict, how to ask for help, as well as what steps you can take afterwards to begin healing and rebuilding trust with them.
Telling Your Spouse You’re An Addict
If you’re an addict, there’s a good chance that your spouse already knows. Addiction can be all-consuming, and it’s often hard to keep it a secret. If you’re ready to come clean about your addiction, and even ask for help, there are a few things you can do to make the conversation go as smoothly as possible.
First, be honest. This is probably the most important thing you can do. Addicts are often in denial about their problem, and that won’t help anything. Be open and honest about your addiction and what it’s been doing to you and your family.
Second, be prepared to answer questions. Your spouse is likely to have a lot of questions about your addiction and how it’s been affecting your life. Be prepared to answer them as best you can. It’s also a good idea to have some resources handy in case they want to know more about addiction and recovery.
Third, be ready to make changes. If you’re serious about recovery, then you need to be prepared to make some changes in your life. This may mean going to treatment or therapy, or making other lifestyle changes. Whatever it is, be ready to commit to change if you want your marriage to survive this difficult time.
Fourth, don’t be afraid to ask for help. Asking for help is not a sign of weakness, but is actually one of the strongest things you can do. Many, many people will be willing to help you along your journey to sobriety, as long as you admit telling them you need help.
The Aftermath Of Telling Your Spouse You’re An Addict
The aftermath of telling your spouse that you’re an addict can be difficult to navigate. You may feel shame, guilt, and fear about what will happen next— but it might also feel great to get it all out in the open and know that help is on the way.
It’s also important to remember that your spouse is likely feeling similar emotions and needs your support.
Here are a few things you can do to support each other through this tough time:
- Attend counseling sessions together. This can help you both process your emotions and start to heal as a couple.
- Join (or create) a support group for spouses of addicts. This can provide much-needed emotional support and allow you to share your experiences with others who understand what you’re going through.
- Seek professional help for your spouse if needed, or encourage them to seek help. This is an important step in taking care of everyone and ensuring that you’re able to effectively support each other during their recovery.
Coping With The Reaction From Your Spouse
The most difficult part of coming clean about your addiction may be dealing with the reaction from your spouse. You may be worried about their reaction, and how it will affect your relationship.
It is important to remember that your spouse may be shocked and confused at first— or they might just be happy it’s all out in the open and you’re both finally facing the disease. They may not understand what you’re going through, and they may need some time to adjust.
Try to be patient with your spouse, and explain things as best you can. It’s also important to reassure them that you’re committed to getting help, and that you’re willing to do whatever it takes to recover.
If your spouse is supportive, they can be a great source of strength and encouragement during this difficult time. If they’re not sure how to help, there are plenty of resources available to both of you.
Whatever their reaction, try to keep the lines of communication open. This is a difficult situation for both of you, but it’s important to remember that you’re in it together.
Getting Help For Your Addiction
If you’re struggling with addiction, it’s important to seek help. There are many resources available to help you overcome your addiction and get on the road to recovery, including treatment centers like ours. One of the things your partner may be willing to do is help you research treatment options as well as payment options.
Your first step in this phase should be knowledge. It’s important to be honest about your problem and let them know what you’re going through, and then it’s essential to get help. These can both be difficult conversations, but they’re important steps in getting to sobriety.
Once you’ve discussed the options, stick to them. We believe treatment centers like ours offer the best advantage to getting sober, because we offer you absolutely everything you might need in your journey to recovery: counseling and support, medicine, sober living situations, aftercare and support, resources for how to live a healthy life after rehab, and much more.
Get Addiction Support For Yourself Or Your Spouse
Telling your spouse that you are an addict is a difficult conversation to have, but it can also be very freeing. Addressing your addiction openly and honestly shows your willingness to take responsibility for the behavior, which in turn demonstrates great courage and strength.
Talking to your partner can also lead to better communication within the relationship as well as provide an opportunity for growth and healing. With love and support from those around you, recovery from addiction is possible and progress towards sobriety can be made.
If you think you might benefit from professional help, give us a call at (844) 973-2611 and we can discuss the best way to get sober with both you and your partner.