As alcohol or drug use worsens, it begins to take more and more time away from the partner, which takes its toll on creating an emotional distance between the partner that is difficult to overcome. These couples also report that they fight and argue a lot, which can sometimes turn violent. Every relationship that comes face to face with substance abuse and addiction is destined to suffer tremendously. Romantic relationships in which at least one partner is dealing with addiction likely include far more conflicts than most.
Trust issues, hurt feelings, and anxiety can be side effects of substance abuse in a relationship for either partner or both. These issues slowly wear away in relationships, gradually leading to the dissipation of happiness that eventually leads to relational failures, and not just the romantic type. One incredibly traumatic effect that addiction can have on relationships is domestic violence. Much of the displaced anger and growing resentment in a relationship in which drugs are involved can erupt and explode violently, leading to potentially fatal consequences.
If someone is using substances that can cause aggressive behavior, small fights can quickly ignite and turn into uncontrollable anger. People living with people who are addicted to drugs that can lead to extremely volatile behaviors are at serious risk of victimization, along with any other family member or children living in the household. In turn, violence can also be exhibited by the person in the relationship who does not use drugs. They are angry with the person addicted to their illness and are acting their anger in an abusive way.
Unfortunately, both situations are common and are not always properly addressed, causing many to suffer in silence due to shame and fear. Unfortunately, substance abuse and addiction can harm social health. All types of relationships—family, friendships, and romantic relationships can come under enormous pressure when someone becomes addicted. The strength of personal and romantic relationships is truly tested in recovery from alcohol or drug abuse.
An addict can do everything they can to get their next dose, and that includes lying and deceiving family and friends. Communication can also be negatively affected, as mistrust continues to increase and each party is afraid to reveal their feelings and emotions. Unfortunately, addiction and relationships are intertwined. How substance abuse affects relationships is the result of a change in the addict's character and behavior toward loved ones.
The effects of drug abuse on the brain include changes in mood, cognitive function, and even physical changes. The longer an addiction persists, the more the person can change. This can cause great strain on relationships, often causing them to deteriorate. The effects of substance abuse on relationships are numerous.
Repairing dysfunctional behaviors and habits that result from addiction can be difficult, but with the tools provided and taught in treatment, the recovery process can be a great time of healing for all those who have had their relationships affected by addiction.
