Content medically reviewed by Vicky Magobet, PMHNP-BC, on May 17, 2021.
When someone is struggling with addiction, they are not struggling alone. Family members, friends, partners and colleagues may also be affected in various ways. Drugs can cause a lot of strain, confusion and distress, and addict behavior in relationships can range from challenging to destructive. Here's a look at five of the ways drug use can impact relationships.
If a loved one or partner develops an addiction, you may be eager to help them. But when you're in a codependent relationship, one of you is enabling the other to not be their best self. Codependency can take the form of:
Healthy relationships are built on interdependence. Individuals can have their own sense of self within a relationship while maintaining a strong emotional bond.
When a person is struggling with substance use, their addiction often takes priority over everything else. They may lie and even steal to obtain drugs, and physical withdrawal symptoms can make quitting feel impossible even when they want to. After many failed declarations and forgotten promises, it can be a challenge to build and maintain trust and intimacy.
Studies have shown that substance use is present in 40 to 60% of IPV incidents. The consequences of this co-occurrence are serious, ranging from physical and emotional trauma to death. Therapies and treatment that address both the substance use disorder and the IPV can help. If you or are a loved one are in an IPV situation, reach out for help as soon as you can.
Addiction can cost up to several thousand dollars a month to maintain depending on the substance. That money has to come from somewhere, and it may be borrowed or stolen from a loved one. It might also come from funds earmarked for expenses such as food, utilities or rent.
Drug use can become so detrimental that one may lose their job, or get a DUI or be in an accident — which could mean legal expenses.
Any one of the issues outlined here can put a strain on a relationship. In many cases, substance use combines them. You or your loved one may resent having to take care of everything around the house. Constantly worrying about a loved one is tiring in itself.
Addiction can cause deep emotional distress, anger, fear, confusion, anxiety and depression — and all of these emotions can take a toll.
Substance abuse and relationships can be a toxic mix. At Diamond House Detox, we can help you or your loved one take a step towards sobriety and healing. We use evidence-based methods to provide care with a focus on substance use and mental health. Contact us today to learn more.
