Substance use can be an unwelcome stressor in a marriage. Having a partner who is abusing substances can be compared to throwing a pebble into a serene pond – the ripple it creates can affect all that surrounds it. In marriage, the effect of substance abuse can be felt by children, relatives and friends. While everyone around you is likely to be impacted, your partner will likely be hit the hardest. 

The Impact of Substance Abuse on a Relationship

Substance abuse can create emotional distance in a relationship. Substance use may cause you to fight and argue until it starts to get worse and perhaps even turns violent. Fights can be used to justify substance abuse, using in order to cope with stress. Addiction can cause serious marital conflicts and those struggling with addiction may turn to substances to cope with the distress caused by conflict. This can be a vicious, self-fulfilling cycle. 

Addiction can degrade the trust in your relationship and cause you to question whether you can work through things. Substance use can create a cycle of secrecy, denial and lies. It can be difficult to work through this on your own, therapy can help. 

Seeking Help as a Couple

When substance abuse occurs in marriage, it can also be important to identify and treat the problems in the relationship as well. Otherwise, these problems may persist even if addictive behaviors stop. You may even find yourself becoming more and more frustrated, not knowing where to turn.

With the help, expertise, and guidance of a licensed therapist you and your spouse can benefit from couples counseling. Call Carolina Counseling Services – Southern Pines, NC contracts with skilled licensed therapists who can help. Call CCS today to schedule your first appointment.

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