- Don't assume that the tough part is over once your spouse comes back home. In many ways, the real work of recovery only begins after your spouse leaves rehab.
- Providing concrete help means you must talk to your spouse and really listen to what they have to say, sometimes reading between the lines.
- For example, your spouse may need to find a new job. Helping them manage their job search and driving them to interviews can be a way of providing concrete support.
- Professionals who have worked with your spouse during rehab also may have suggestions for things you can do to help them in recovery.
Full Answer
How can I get my spouse to go to rehab?
Among the best tools at your disposal to help you deal with the residual effects of living with an addicted partner is a family recovery program. Programs such as these can be precious to assist family members in healing and preparing them for life with their loved ones post-rehab.
How can I help my husband in his recovery from addiction?
It’s true that couples should spend time together, but not to the point where a temporary stay in a rehab center should be off-limits. Codependent people may have a lack of boundaries, fear of abandonment, an unhealthy sense of responsibility for the other person, and a need for approval. Take Care of Yourself
How can I help my loved one go to rehab?
Jun 04, 2019 · Cutting off enabling behavior will usually lead to your husband or wife being frustrated or angry. Setting boundaries that define what will and will not be tolerated can help you identify where your limitations are. Creating boundaries also helps you stand your ground if those boundaries are crossed.
How can support groups help my spouse in recovery?
Attend an open 12-step meeting with your spouse. Encourage your spouse to attend recovery meetings, read recovery literature, and do whatever is necessary to achieve sobriety. Take care of yourself: Being married to someone struggling with addiction can be exhausting. Your own emotional needs may not be met.
How long do people usually last in rehab?
The general length of rehab programs are: 30-day program. 60-day program. 90-day program.Nov 4, 2021
What is the success rate of people who go to rehab?
An estimated 43 percent of all people who go to drug rehab successfully complete their treatment programs, while another 16 percent are transferred to other rehab centers for additional treatment. Rehab success rates for those who complete drug and alcohol detoxification are a combined 68 percent.May 29, 2019
What are the 5 stages of rehab?
Don't Forget the RehabPhase 1 - Control Pain and Swelling.Phase 2 - Improve Range of Motion and/or Flexibility.Phase 3 - Improve Strength & Begin Proprioception/Balance Training.Phase 4 - Proprioception/Balance Training & Sport-Specific Training.Phase 5 - Gradual Return to Full Activity.
What do you say to someone who just got out of rehab?
8 Things to Say to Someone in RecoveryI Love You. ... You're Not Alone. ... Everyone Needs Help Sometimes. ... How Are You Feeling? ... How Can I Help? ... Let's Hang Out. ... I'm Proud of You. ... I Know You Are Struggling, But There's Always Hope.May 29, 2019
Is rehab more effective than jail?
They exist for the specific purpose of helping addicts find and maintain time clean and sober. That's not to say it's impossible to quit drugs while in jail but there are far better alternatives. Drug rehab is a much more effective solution for those who receive possession charges.Dec 9, 2021
What's the success rate of AA?
Alcoholics Anonymous' Big Book touts about a 50% success rate, stating that another 25% remain sober after some relapses. A study conducted by AA in 2014 showed that 27% of the more than 6,000 members who participated in the study were sober for less than a year.Mar 3, 2022
What are the three phases of rehab?
Phases of RehabPhase I—control pain and swelling (ice, remove aggravating movement patterns when possible, NSAIDs, ultrasound, e-stim).Phase II—Begin ROM and resume cardiovascular training.Phase III—Restore ROM, improve strength and endurance, proprioception, continue cardiovascular training, should be near.More items...
What are the 4 stages of recovery?
The 4 Stages of Complete RehabilitationRest and Protect the Injury. The first stage of recovery is all about minimising further damage and letting the body begin the healing process. ... Recover Your Motion. ... Recover Your Strength. ... Recover Your Function.
What are the phases of recovery?
There are generally three stages of recovery: abstinence, repair, and growth.Dec 10, 2019
What should you not say to someone in recovery?
What Not To Say To Someone In Recovery“I know how you feel.” ... “How long have you been sober?” ... “Joe is in recovery, too.” ... “Can't you have just one (drink/hit)?” ... “Why did you get into that stuff?” ... “I never thought you had a problem.”Jul 6, 2020
What do you say to a one year sober?
“Happy Sober Anniversary” Sample Messages“I'm so happy to see you taking care of yourself.”“You've grown into such a strong and independent person.”“I'm so proud of you and the progress you've made.”“You deserve to be happy.”“I'm happy you're doing so well. ... “You are deserving of a happy and sober life.”More items...•Jul 21, 2021
What to write in a card for a recovering alcoholic?
Affirm Their Progress And What They Deserve“I'm so proud of you”“I'm so happy to see you taking care of yourself”“You are so strong”“I'm happy that you're doing well”“You are inspiring”“You deserve to be happy”“You are deserving of a happy and healthy life”“Keep on fighting”Aug 10, 2020
What does it mean when your partner returns from rehab?
When Your Partner Returns From Rehab. Many people in a relationship with a person who is in rehab worry about things being different when they return. The truth is, things will be different, but that’s a good thing. Recovery means change for the better. It also means that you will have to adapt to those changes.
What is rehab therapy?
In most cases, rehab includes a combination of regular individual therapy sessions, group therapy, and a range of holistic therapies, among others. It’s a time for the patient to be focused on recovery, so it would be understandable if, during that time, you don’t hear from them as frequently as you might like.
How does addiction affect relationships?
Being in a relationship with someone who’s been struggling with addiction can be traumatizing in many ways. Your environment was probably emotionally charged and difficult, the effects of which can stay with you for years to come. Loved ones of individuals recovering from drug addiction and alcoholism may face some of those lasting after-effects such as depression, loss of trust, and emotional numbness. If those feelings are not addressed, they can be detrimental to your well-being, not to mention that of your partner.
What does it mean when you are bitter at your partner?
It also means that you will have to adapt to those changes. Some old and deeply ingrained behaviors will need to be modified. If you’ve found yourself expressing blame or bitterness at your partner because of the addiction, you’ll have to be mindful of that in the future.
What are some enabling behaviors that codependent people exhibit?
Some common enabling behaviors exhibited by codependent individuals include making excuses for the addict’s behavior, blaming others for the person’s addiction, and repeatedly helping individuals get out of difficult situations by lending them money or bailing them out of jail.
Can I sit down with my partner for therapy?
It’s a good opportunity to begin the healing process for your relationship. However, you aren’t obligated to participate in therapy, and if you aren’t ready, you shouldn’t feel pressured. However, it’s often a good way to have your thoughts and feelings to be recognized. Be sure to seriously consider it before deciding one way or the other.
Is it good to encourage your partner to be sober?
It’s good to encourage your partner as they are taking steps toward sobriety and mental health. But you might be how surprised how common it is for significant others to tell their partners that they were “more fun” before they became committed to sobriety. Adapting to your partner’s new sober lifestyle can be hard. But for the good of your relationship and their health, it’s important to encourage steps in the right direction.
How to help your spouse with sobriety?
Try to understand your spouse’s journey into sobriety and the obstacles and personal torment they’ve faced. Open the lines of communication. Talk to your spouse about the kind of support they need , taking care not to sacrifice your own emotional, physical or mental health.
What does a recovering spouse need more than anything?
What a recovering spouse needs more than anything is the support of their partner. A study by researchers at the State University of New York at Buffalo found that men recovering from addiction are more likely to relapse if they feel that their partner is critical of them.
What to do after completing drug rehab?
Prepare for setbacks. Even after completing drug rehab, your spouse may struggle on the path of addiction recovery. Hurdles can range from lying, manipulating and selfishness to full-blown relapse. Don’t take relapse personally. Your spouse’s recovery involves you, but it is really about them.
What is counseling for spouse?
In counseling, you’ll be able to practice new communication skills and work together to identify and manage feelings. Know that your relationship is going to change. Your spouse’s progress may be slow, or it may be surprisingly quick. They may meet new friends, excel at work and perhaps even outshine you.
How to help your spouse with alcoholism?
Be patient. Even without drugs or alcohol, your spouse may not become the person you’ve always hoped they’d be – at least not quickly. It will take time for them to fulfill family responsibilities, and it may take time for you to be ready to put those responsibilities back in their hands. Work on forgiveness.
Why do addicts need to be selfish?
During that time, addicts and alcoholics need to be somewhat “selfish,” focusing on themselves in order to maintain sobriety and rebuild their lives and their self-esteem. This can leave spouses feeling neglected and resentful. What a recovering spouse needs more than anything is the support of their partner.
Is it easy to recover from an addiction?
With the persistent threat of relapse, the emotional roller coaster can continue for many years. While addiction recovery is seldom easy – for either the addict or their spouse – getting support and giving support are two ways you can overcome the obstacles with your marriage intact.
What happens when your spouse refuses to get treatment?
When a spouse is addicted to drugs or alcohol and refuses to get treatment, it can feel like you are stuck between a rock and a hard place. Thankfully, there are a number of things that you can do to explore options while still maintaining a respectful relationship with your spouse, such as:
How to deal with addictions in a relationship?
There is no shame in admitting that you need help dealing with the side effects of your partner’s addiction. Seeking professional assistance can help you regain strength and clarity, so you can figure out the next steps.
What happens when your partner experiences addiction?
When your partner finally experiences the full negative effects of addiction, they may change their tune and see that there is a problem. Once their eyes are open to the realities of addiction, they might realize they are in need of treatment for their addiction.
Can addiction affect anyone?
Addiction can affect anyone, regardless of age, sex, gender, or relationship status. The disease of addiction knows no limitation. Understanding the nature of addiction can help when you are deciding how to approach your spouse about their substance abuse.
Do you have to tell your spouse you are addicted?
In fact, you don’t have to tell anyone until you are ready, you just need to admit it to yourself.
Can addiction change you?
Perhaps you were completely unaware of their addiction or didn’t believe their substance use was out of control. No matter the reason, when addiction treatment becomes a topic of conversation can be complicated and messy. Addiction can change a person, turn them into someone unrecognizable, even to those closest to them.
Can you maintain a relationship with someone struggling with addiction?
Trying to maintain a relationship with someone struggling with addiction may seem impossible at times. The stress and strain addiction places on intimate relationships can end up causing resentment and frustration.
How to help an addicted spouse?
In order to help your addicted spouse, don’t: Lie for your spouse: Lying to cover your partner’s hangover or binge isn’t going to help get them into recovery faster. Don’t call in sick for your partner or make excuses to family or friends for odd behavior. Let your spouse explain and take responsibility.
How to help a spouse with drug addiction?
For them, it may be better to stay in the marriage and try to help a spouse with drug addiction. If you’re committed to living with an addicted spouse, you can take the following steps to help them get help. Ask for help: Reach out to family, friends, and others you trust.
Why is it so hard to live with an addicted spouse?
Living with an addicted spouse can be so difficult many marriages end in separation or divorce if the person struggling with addiction doesn’t get treatment. According to the Couples Counseling Center in Chicago, addiction is the seventh most common reason why marriages ...
How to help my wife with addiction?
Encourage your spouse to attend recovery meetings, read recovery literature, and do whatever is necessary to achieve sobriety. Take care of yourself: Being married to someone struggling with addiction can be exhausting. Your own emotional needs may not be met. It’s important to take good care of yourself.
Where is 12 Keys Rehab?
You and your spouse can begin the journey to recovery together at 12 Keys Rehab. Located in Florida, 12 Keys Rehab offers a strong plan of recovery that includes body, mind, spirit and family to help addicts become free of drugs and alcohol.
Can family factors influence addiction?
Genetics, social factors and, yes, family factors can influence addiction. But the ultimate choice to drink or do drugs was with your spouse. After a while, the ability to choose is lost as addiction takes hold. Your spouse did choose to take that first drink or dabble in drugs. You’re not to blame for their behavior.
Do couples know before they say "I do"?
Some couples know before they say “I do” that a partner has issues with drugs or alcohol. Those in recovery can be the healthiest, most well-adjusted people you’ll meet, but they can also relapse.
How can support groups help spouses?
Support groups can be a critical source of emotional strength for the spouse of a person in recovery. By connecting with other individuals who have gone through the same experiences, partners can learn new coping strategies and acquire a sense of hope for the future.
What is behavioral couples therapy?
Behavioral Couples Therapy, or BCT, has evolved as an approach to treating substance abuse within a cohabiting partnership. BCT, which is typically offered to committed couples who have a strong emotional investment in improving their relationship, helps partners address the dysfunctional patterns that sustain addiction.
How does substance abuse affect a relationship?
Substance abuse can eventually destroy a couple by undermining trust, which weakens the bond between partners. If children are part of the relationship, conflicts over parental responsibilities, neglect, or abuse can occur as a result of one partner’s – or sometimes both partners’ – drinking or drug use. 1.
What is sober housing?
In sober living programs, housing is provided within the community, in a home that is structured by rules and expectations about maintaining sobriety.
What is the cycle of conflict in marriage?
The American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy describes a cycle of conflict that occurs in domestic partnerships, in which substance abuse leads to verbal and physical conflict, which in turn leads to further disagreements about the substance abuse itself .
Does insurance cover mental health?
Your health insurance may cover treatment for addiction and mental health disorders. Plans can vary in terms of what type of coverage they provide or how long they will cover treatment, so it’s best to check with your provider or the rehab program you’re interested in attending.
Why do drug rehabs include family?
Most professional alcohol and drug rehab programs include the family of the patient in the recovery process because research has shown that it reduces the risk of relapse. 1 . Usually, during the first month of rehab, you will be invited to the treatment facility for a "family education program," or family day.
What do family members receive in recovery?
They will receive group therapy, individual counseling, medical care, and a balanced diet. In other words, your loved one is in the hands ...
How to participate in family therapy?
Participation in the family workshop is beneficial in several ways: 1 It allows the rehab counselors to gain input from the family, observe how the family interacts and learn more about family dynamics. 2 It can encourage your loved one to continue with their treatment program knowing the family supports them. 3 It offers your family member an opportunity to learn how the entire family has been affected by their addiction.
Is family therapy a therapy?
Family Workshop Is Not Therapy. Although there are many benefits to attending a family educational workshop while your family member is in rehab, 4  those sessions are not therapy. Many times these workshops will bring out strong feelings among family members, and they can become emotional.
Can a family member tell you they are in a health care facility?
Your family member is in a health care facility. Due to confidentiality concerns and federal privacy laws, the staff of the facility is prohibited from giving you any information about their situation . Your loved one will have to tell you themselves.
Is my family member locked up?
Your family member is not being held against their will, and they are not locked up. Apparently, they had a substance abuse problem and have decided to get professional help. If that is the case, they are exactly where they need to be to get the help that they need. They are in the hands of a staff of professionals, ...
Can you talk to someone in rehab?
Your loved one will have to tell you themselves. No, you cannot talk with them right now, but don't take it personally. In the early days of their rehab program, contact with the outside world will be highly restricted. They typically won't have access to media or the Internet either.
What to do if your loved one relapses?
Be Afraid of Sparking a Relapse Despite the myths, nothing you do or say you can cause him to relapse; you simply don’t have that much power. If your loved one relapses, it’s not your fault. You didn’t force him to do anything. Be honest about your feelings, without the fear of the consequences.
What to do before a loved one leaves rehab?
Before your loved one leaves rehab, he will sit down with counselors and develop a detailed aftercare plan. This will make his transition back into the “real” world much easier.
How to avoid making your own recovery plan?
Avoid Making Your Own Recovery Plan This is especially important if your addicted loved one is a teenager or still living at home. Make sure the plan has doable, realistic goals and consequences if he fails to meet those goals. Bring up the Past It’s a given that your loved one hurt you with his drug use.
