Addiction destroys anything it touches, as anyone who has been married or involved with someone addicted knows from experience. Alcohol, illicit drugs such as heroin or cocaine, or prescription drugs like Xanax or OxyContin may be the drugs of choice in marriage.

People who are addicted pick drugs and alcohol before anything else, including their marriages, their partners, and their children.

Those close to the individual who suffers from addiction also feel the impact, such as friends and family. The change in behavioral patterns of the user that the family is not used to also leads to conflicts. Below are some tips for helping an addicted partner;

• DO NOT LOSE YOURSELF

You do not want to lose yourself in caring for the addict as frustration can set in and you might lash out. It may result in resentment or even a mental breakdown if the addict’s stress is adding to yours. You must take care of your physical and mental health to support this person. You need to sleep well, eat healthy foods, socialize, exercise, anything that helps keep you in good shape.

• LEARN ABOUT ADDICTION

It may not seem like it, but addiction is a disease – and it’s a family disease, at that. As well as affecting the individual using, addiction can have a domino effect on their families. To understand the condition, you are facing, it is imperative to learn as much about it as possible. You might also consult with an experienced and compassionate treatment specialist.

• GET THEM HELP.

Instead of condemning their deed, suggest that they seek treatment by educating them about the dangers of their behaviors. Despite all your encouragement, do not be surprised if they refuse to listen to you. But insist that you need to get help immediately and insist that you should get it immediately.