How to Fix an Alcoholic Relationship
Alcoholism is an all-consuming condition that has the power to destroy an individual's life and relationships. Fixing a relationship with an alcoholic can be a challenging task, but many alcoholics and their loved ones have been able to mend the broken pieces of their association and move forward together. With the right mix of determination, strength and patience and the abilities to be brutally honest and openly communicative, alcoholics and their spouses, family members and friends can repair fractured relationships.
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Instructions
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How to Fix a Relationship Affected by Alcoholism
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Admit there is a problem. Counselors, 12-step groups and medical professionals agree that an alcoholic cannot make progress until he or she admits to having a drinking problem.
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Join a support group. There are support groups that cater to both alcoholics and their loved ones. These include Alcoholics Anonymous, Al-Anon, Adult Children of Alcoholics, Recovery Inc., Secular Organizations for Sobriety and SMART Recovery.
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Talk openly with one another. Do not keep secrets, or hold back your true feelings. Try not to be combative or direct rage at one another; do your best to stay calm and communicate what you are feeling.
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Accept responsibility. Both alcoholics and their loved ones must accept responsibility for the roles they played in the breakdown of the relationship. This is not self-blame or blaming the other person. This is simply an act of acknowledging the accountability of each party involved.
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Seek counseling. A trained therapist can work wonders with helping alcoholics and their loved ones heal their wounds and repair their relationships. The therapeutic setting is ideal for fixing an alcoholic relationship because the presence of a moderator can provide neutral feedback, support and guidance.
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Celebrate small victories. Quitting drinking is a hard road, and alcoholics need all the support they can find. As an alcoholic confronts his or her demons, healthier attitudes and behavior will emerge. Honor and respect these small accomplishments.
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Tips & Warnings
Don't go it alone. Ensure that both the alcoholic and the family member or friend have a solid support network to whom they can turn.
Be patient. People don't change overnight, and you shouldn't expect your relationship to turn around in the blink of an eye. Mending a broken relationship will take time, communication and honesty.
Do not try to work on a relationship with an alcoholic who has been drinking. This could escalate into an ugly scene that won't benefit either party. Talk about the relationship only when both parties are sober and ready to sit down and open up to one another.
