| Being the partner of an addict is not easy. Your | | | | endorphins, which help elevate mood. |
| partner, if engaged in active addiction, is likely so | | | | 2. Gather all the outside support you can get. Join a |
| consumed with pursuing the next high or drink that | | | | support group - organizations such as Al-Anon have |
| he or she is not fully present emotionally to you in | | | | meetings all over the world, and the support and |
| the relationship. It is tempting when you love an | | | | energy of those who understand exactly what you |
| addict to try to manage and minimize the various | | | | are experiencing can be of immense value. So too |
| crises brought about by his or her use of drugs and | | | | can the help of a counselor who specializes in |
| alcohol. However, this action generally serves to | | | | addiction issues. Having an unbiased, trained |
| reinforce the dysfunctional system and enable the | | | | perspective to help you process your emotions can |
| addict to continue the destructive behavior. You are | | | | be of great benefit. |
| likely to feel increasingly resentful over having to be | | | | 3. Stop rescuing your partner and helping him or her |
| the responsible one, and become more inclined to | | | | avoid consequences. Unfortunately, the addict has |
| desire to control the drug or alcohol use of your | | | | little motivation to change if there is never a |
| partner, and neglect your own needs. It is very | | | | consequence for using or drinking. Setting boundaries |
| important to take care of yourself as the partner of | | | | and limits benefits you as well, as you unburden |
| an addict. Here are 4 tips to managing life with an | | | | yourself of the responsibility for "saving" your |
| addict: | | | | partner. |
| 1. Take excellent care of yourself physically. Eat | | | | 4. Begin focusing on yourself, on your dreams, goals, |
| healthy meals, and take vitamins and supplements as | | | | and desires. Start making plans for yourself and |
| needed. Many people can benefit from adding fish oil | | | | enjoy the process of daydreaming and fantasizing |
| and a multivitamin to start - a naturopath can create | | | | about your aspirations and desires. The more you |
| a supplement plan that addresses your particular | | | | focus on the positive and experience that positive |
| needs. Exercise according to your doctor's | | | | feeling of motivation, the more likely these results will |
| recommendations to relieve stress and increase | | | | begin to manifest in your life. |