What Percentage of Couples Break Up Because of Addiction?

Addiction is a serious problem that affects millions of people around the world. It can also have a devastating impact on relationships, leading to conflicts, mistrust, resentment, and ultimately, breakups. But how common is addiction as a reason for couples to end their relationship? And what can be done to prevent or overcome this challenge?

According to a study published in the Journal of Family Psychology, substance abuse and addiction are linked to higher divorce rates. Approximately 40 to 50 percent of married couples in the United States divorce, and the divorce rate for subsequent marriages is even higher. The same study found that substance abuse and substance use disorders (SUD) can lead to serious negative consequences in one’s life, as well as in the lives of their family members. This is why divorce rates are much higher among those addicted to substances than those who are not.

Some of the common signs of substance abuse damage in a relationship include:

– Extreme mood swings
– Aggression
– Emotional stress
– Spending excessive amounts of money on drugs
– Neglecting responsibilities and commitments
– Lying and hiding behaviors
– Loss of interest in intimacy and affection
– Isolation from friends and family

All of these factors can erode the trust, respect, and love that are essential for a healthy and happy relationship. Moreover, substance abuse and addiction can also affect the divorce process itself, especially when it comes to child custody and court proceedings. If one spouse has a current issue with drugs and/or alcohol, it is more likely that the other spouse will get full custody of the children. The court may also consider the impact of addiction on the financial situation, the marital assets, and the alimony payments.

There is hope for couples with addiction issues.

However, not all hope is lost for couples who are struggling with addiction. There are ways to prevent or overcome this challenge and save the relationship from breaking up. Some of these include:

– Seeking professional help for addiction. There are many treatment options available for people who want to recover from substance abuse and addiction, such as detoxification, medication-assisted therapy, counseling, support groups, and rehabilitation programs. Getting help can improve one’s physical and mental health, as well as their relationship quality.
– Supporting each other through recovery. Recovery is not a solo journey; it requires the support and encouragement of loved ones. Couples who are dealing with addiction can benefit from attending couples therapy or family therapy, where they can learn how to communicate effectively, resolve conflicts, rebuild trust, and strengthen their bond.
– Setting healthy boundaries and expectations. Couples who are coping with addiction need to establish clear rules and boundaries regarding their substance use, such as avoiding triggers, limiting exposure, and being accountable for their actions. They also need to have realistic expectations about the recovery process, which can be challenging and relapse-prone.
– Finding new hobbies and interests. One of the reasons why people turn to drugs or alcohol is boredom or lack of fulfillment. Couples who are recovering from addiction can find new ways to have fun and enjoy life together, such as engaging in hobbies, sports, arts, or volunteering activities. These can help them develop new skills, boost their self-esteem, and create positive memories.

Addiction is not an easy problem to overcome, but it is not impossible either. With the right help and support, couples who are facing this issue can heal themselves and their relationship. They can also learn from their experience and grow stronger as individuals and as a couple.

If you or your spouse, or both of you have an addiction issue then Zak’s House is a licensed rehab for couples.