Relationships in Addiction

Toxic, Toxic, Toxic. That is the only word I can use to describe relationships in addiction. Especially if there are two (or three in this modern world, I believe the term is trouple) people in addiction in the relationship. I have come across many couples within the homeless services and those who rely on addictions. It doesn’t work. I have seen my fair share of both physical and emotional abuse in addicted couples too. You become not only dependent on your drink, gamble or drug of choice but also you become dependent on each other too.

Addiction and Recovery can be lonely, it’s only natural for people of similar interests to become attracted to each other. That attraction can come at a huge cost however. As I spoke about the cost benefit analysis. The short term needs and wants outweigh the long term needs and wants which in essence is the opposite as to how it should be. Your recovery becomes dependent on your partners’ recovery too. Recovery is complicated enough without adding fuel to the fire. 

Don’t get me wrong, I have seen good relationships blossom too. Only after good recovery though. They say in treatment centres across Ireland that if you are single you should wait at least two years before committing to any sort of relationship. If you are in a relationship you need to consider setting boundaries. You also need to consider making sure you have the space to grow emotionally and spiritually.