One of the most common questions being raised to someone dealing with addiction is “How do I stop my husband/wife/partner from alcohol abuse?” The truth of the matter is– you cannot. This is because they will stop drinking alcohol when they themselves decide to stop. However, there is good news to this. Even if you do not have the power to stop them, you can actually avoid some things which in effect could result to his seeking professional help.
Living with an alcoholic husband will take a lot of sacrifice to the point of allowing him to experience embarrassment and humiliation. But you need to muster enough courage for the sake of your loved one so when he trips over or falls because he is too drunk, let him be and do not shield him or help him. Many are of the belief that an alcoholic will start to seek help when he feels hurt or he is in pain. So the sooner he suffers the consequence of his alcohol abuse, the better it is for him.
Drinking also brings other consequences in the life of an alcoholic. One effect of this is on his job. Due to excessive drinking, there may be times when he is unable to report for work and not even inform his superiors about his absence. His behavior is greatly affected by his excessive drinking.
When a drinker experiences money problems, do not extend any financial help because this will only give him the idea that you will always be there to lend him and give him support.
Living with an alcoholic can sometimes get the better of you. Because of some failed attempts to deliver the person from alcohol abuse, others just decide to join them and this is dangerous because if you resort to this, sooner or later you yourself might be an alcoholic.
If you want your husband to stop drinking alcohol, do not give him a reason to drink– do not shout and nag him about his excessive drinking. Always try to maintain your composure. One more thing, never threaten him or give ultimatums unless you intend to carry these out. These things will only justify his drinking addiction citing stress from partner as one of the reasons.
Do not let the alcoholic see you crying or sulking as this will add up to his woes and again push him into drinking more. D not give him the reason to accuse you as the cause of all his drinking addiction.
If you want to engage him in a pleasant conversation, do so when he is sober. This way, who knows, things might turn out for the better.
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