Addictive behaviours whether they involve alcohol, drugs, gambling, pornography or other problematic behaviours have a huge impact on the well-being of relationships, causing enormous tension between couples and invariably having very adverse consequences for the wellbeing of the marriage or relationship.

Addictions impact relationships in many different ways which perhaps accounts for the very destructive impact they have on a marriage or long term relationship. The addiction consumes a huge amount of the addicts time which is not then available to the relationship, there are often problematic changes in behaviour, violent mood swings which trigger angry outbursts and confrontation are common and deception and financial irresponsibility often accompany addiction. While these problems are often evident to the spouse or partner many people trapped in addiction are in denial as to the impact of their addictions on family members. Often it is a relationship or family crisis that finally breaks through this denial and creates the type of crisis event where the addiction can no longer be denied and recovery can commence.

Here at Relationships Ireland we have worked with thousands of couples whose relationship has affected by addiction. We can help one of both parties confront the reality of addiction and where necessary refer to specialised addiction services. We can also work with couples where one party has been through a treatment and recovery process and help them repair the damage to the marriage or relationship and rebuild trust in each other.