When discussing addiction recovery, many liken it to a journey, with sustained sobriety as the final destination. Understanding this, we have decided to put together a short guide that covers three different scenarios, all with the same core element; how to support your spouse in addiction recovery. However, due to the different stages you may find yourself in, we designed this guide for spouses in three distinct scenarios:
- Supporting your spouse’s entry into rehab
- Supporting your spouse whilst they’re in rehab treatment
- Supporting your spouse as they return from rehab
Each stage brings its own challenges and emotions and this guide seeks to make each step more manageable and supportive for both you and your spouse.
Supporting your spouse’s entry into rehab
In an ideal scenario, either you’ve successfully intervened or your spouse has recognised the need for rehab. Once they’ve agreed to enter rehab, your support will be crucial. It’s natural to feel apprehensive, especially with the prospect of being apart but it’s important to remember that this is the right decision. Below, we offer some helpful advice to ensure both you and your spouse are as prepared as possible for this stage:
Tackle work and legal commitments together
Help your spouse communicate with their employer about taking leave, ideally under policies like the FMLA (US) and Dependants Leave (UK), which protects their job during medical absences. Also, if there are any legal matters to address, assist them in handling these or seeking appropriate legal advice. Taking these worries off their plate can ease their mind as they focus on healing.
Sort out financial and home life duties
Now comes the time to ensure bills and financial obligations are covered during their time away. Setting up automatic payments or arranging for a family member to oversee things can prevent any added stress. Also, plan for the care of children and pets, ensuring your home life remains stable and secure. If the important things in life are covered it offers a peace of mind for both of you during this time.
Prepare for their rehab stay
Assist your spouse in packing the essentials they’ll need, following the rehab facility’s guidelines on permitted items. Help them understand the daily routines and rules they’ll encounter, which can make the transition smoother and less daunting.
Discuss recovery goals
If possible, spend some quiet time discussing what your spouse hopes to achieve through rehab. Setting clear, meaningful goals can provide them with a sense of purpose and direction. Also, talk about the positive changes you’ll both work towards once they’re home, reinforcing your commitment to a healthier future together.
Supporting your spouse whilst they’re in rehab treatment
When supporting a spouse who has entered rehab, the process can feel emotionally complex, especially with varying communication restrictions depending on the stage of recovery. Here’s how you can effectively support your spouse during their time in rehab:
Stay informed and involved
Engage with the rehab centre to understand their family involvement policies. If direct contact is limited, ask about other ways to participate, such as family therapy sessions via phone or video calls or attending educational sessions that explain the recovery process. This involvement shows your support and helps you better understand the journey your spouse is undergoing.
Manage expectations realistically
Recognise that recovery is a complex process filled with challenges. Educate yourself about the common ups and downs, including the risk of relapse. Understanding these dynamics can prepare you emotionally and mentally, helping you to provide steadier support throughout your spouse’s journey.
Collaboratively plan for post-rehab life
When appropriate and as your spouse progresses in recovery, begin discussing plans for after their return home. Work together with rehab counsellors to understand what support systems, such as ongoing therapy or support groups, will be beneficial. Discuss lifestyle changes and strategies to manage triggers, which can help integrate your spouse back into everyday life smoothly.
Supporting your spouse as they return from rehab
If you’re awaiting the return of your spouse, first, congratulations to both of you on reaching this milestone. Completing rehab is a significant achievement and your support has been invaluable. However, it’s important to acknowledge that the addiction recovery journey doesn’t end just because the programme is complete and they’re back home. This phase can be challenging but there are steps you can take to help make this transition as smooth as possible.
Create a supportive home environment
Transform your home into a sanctuary that promotes sobriety. Remove any substances that could pose a risk of relapse and consider avoiding social settings or gatherings where these substances might be present. This proactive approach helps minimise temptations and supports a healthy lifestyle.
Monitor and manage stress
Keep an eye on the overall stress levels in your home. High stress is a common trigger for relapse, so it’s crucial to address stress proactively. Explore healthy ways to manage stress together, such as engaging in regular physical activity, pursuing relaxing hobbies or practising mindfulness and meditation.
Encourage ongoing professional support
Support your spouse in continuing therapy and attending support group meetings. Recovery is an ongoing process and maintaining connections with therapists and peer support groups can provide essential guidance and accountability.
Celebrate recovery milestones
Acknowledge and celebrate each step of progress in your spouse’s recovery journey, no matter how small. Whether it’s a week, a month or a year of sobriety, celebrating these milestones can greatly enhance morale and motivate continued effort towards recovery.
If you haven’t already, why should you consider rehab for your spouse?
Drug rehab or alcohol rehab offers compassionate and effective addiction help for your spouse, starting with a carefully supervised detox to safely manage withdrawal symptoms from drugs or alcohol.
The programme continues with a blend of therapies, including traditional Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) and holistic practices like yoga, which are crucial for mental health and developing a robust relapse prevention plan.
Aftercare services are also provided to support long-term recovery plans, helping your spouse reintegrate into society with strength and resilience. This comprehensive approach is designed to nurture recovery from addiction, ensuring a loving, supportive path back to health and happiness.
Contact your nearest rehab centre today to begin the journey to a drug or alcohol free life.