For the Spouse of the Alcoholic
For the Spouse of the Alcoholic
Alcoholics do not suffer an isolated illness. The disease of alcoholism affects the whole family. Spouses of alcoholics are often the most affected, as they struggle to carry the load, ‘make’ the alcoholic stop drinking, and just get through the day with little hope for change.
Spouses often feel responsible to solve the problems their wives or husbands are dealing with. Spouses of the alcoholic often have to care for the children and household alone, or with minimal help. Spouses also feel abandoned.
For the spouse of the alcoholic, there is help and support. There is also hope. Al-Anon is a program for the family members of alcoholics. There, you will find many other spouses who share the same struggles, fears, and pains that you do.
Al-Anon teaches the principle of emotional disengagement- the ability and necessity to distance oneself emotionally from the alcoholic, to reduce enmeshment and increase the spouse’s ability to function in life. It also, ironically, increases the odds that the alcoholic will seek treatment.
Being able to share what you are going through, each week, with others who understand and share your concerns, is empowering and comforting. You will hear not only stories you can relate to, but also stories of how others are managing and coping. This can give you the courage to take care of yourself and work through your challenges.
In the end, regardless of the choices your husband or wife makes, you must be able to live. You may have parents, siblings, children, and/or friends who count on you. Likely, you have responsibilities like work to manage. Don’t let your loved one’s alcoholism hold you hostage any longer. Seek help for yourself and find hope again.
In addition to Al-Anon, many spouses of alcoholics find help in individual therapy. Or, if your loved one goes to residential treatment, we invite you to enroll in our family program as part of their treatment plan. There, you can work with therapists who specialize in working with alcoholics and their families. Advocate for yourself and get the support you need. Call us today 1-877-593-6777.
