Witnessing a loved one relapse can be heartbreaking and stressful.

When your spouse is recovering from addiction, relapse is always an underlying danger. It’s common for people to stay single for at least a year after recovery to avoid any possible triggers -- but this isn’t always the case. Many people want to stay with their partners after receiving treatment for substance abuse. However, if you’re in a relationship with someone in recovery, it’s important to know what to do when a spouse relapses.

What to Do When Your Spouse Relapses

As a drug rehab center in Gilman, we know that recovering addicts aren’t the only ones affected by addiction. The spouse of an addict may experience a rollercoaster of emotions as they watch their loved one battle this disease. A person undergoes many changes when they’re recovering and transitioning from rehab back to their daily routine. Unfortunately, many people relapse during their recovery. You may not initially know what to do when a spouse relapses, but there are ways you can help them get back on their feet.

Find Treatment 

The first step in helping your spouse after they relapse is to get them into treatment. Addiction is a disease and staying sober can be difficult long after leaving rehab. It is imperative that you seek professional help for your partner.

At Banyan Heartland, we offer programs that can help individuals recover from relapse. In our partial hospitalization program in Gilman, people who have relapsed can recover from the effects of substance abuse and learn new ways to maintain their sobriety after rehab.

Stay Calm

You may not know what to say when your spouse relapses, but it’s important to not immediately respond with emotion. You may say hurtful things that you’ll regret later if you react in anger. Lashing out at your spouse can push them further into addiction.

It’s easier said than done, but remember that your partner may rely on you for love and support through this time. They may feel embarrassed and vulnerable, and responding negatively can discourage them from getting help or sharing any other problems with you in the future.

Be Patient

Recovery is a never-ending process. Recovering from a relapse can be especially difficult. Not only is the individual battling their physical dependency on the substance, but they’re also suffering mentally. Be patient with your spouse while they recover from relapse. The best way you can show your partner that you care is to extend kindness, patience, and support throughout their treatment.

Many people struggle with a mental illness that can contribute to substance abuse and make recovery even more difficult. With our cognitive behavioral therapy, our trained experts focus on changing negative thoughts and behaviors that may lead to addiction. Understanding how to properly cope with these possible triggers can help prevent relapse.

Take Care of Yourself

Like an addiction, relapse affects both the addict and their loved ones. It’s important to take care of yourself while you’re trying to help your spouse and cope with the situation. It’s okay to set time aside to relax and destress from all that is happening. Mentally and physically burning yourself out will only make the situation harder to manage.

At Banyan Treatment Centers Heartland, we know that relapse can put a strain on a relationship. Having a spouse relapse can take an emotional toll. Remember, you cannot recover for them, but you can help them receive the treatment they need to get back on track.

If you or someone you know is battling with substance abuse or have relapsed, do not wait to get help. Call us now at 888-280-4763 to find out more about our drug and alcohol treatments in Gilman.