What to do if Your Spouse is Addicted to Opiates

Opiate addiction is a very dangerous disease that can be deadly. People with an opiate addiction take opiate based drugs like Morphine, Oxycontin, and Oxycodone. Common signs of opiate addiction are excessive sleeping, weight gain, heavy limbs, and needle marks. If your spouse is addicted to opiates, it can be devastating. You want to help him, but are not sure what to do. However, you can’t just sit around and allow your spouse to ruin his life. Here are some tips on dealing with a spouse who is addicted to opiates.

Educate Yourself About the Disease

Before you can help your spouse, you have to learn more about his opiate addiction. If you don’t know much about the disease, you may not realize how serious it really is. If you take the time to educate yourself about the disease, you will realize that it is difficult to beat. Go to the library and rent a few books about opiate addiction. You can also go online and research different articles about opiate addiction.

Talk To Your Spouse About His Addiction

It may be difficult, but you have to talk to your spouse about his addiction when he is sober. Tell him how his addiction is negatively affecting you and that you are worried about him. Let him know that you are afraid his addiction will cause him to hurt someone else or die at an early age. Then, encourage him to seek treatment. Inform him about the different treatment options out there and tell him that you will always be there for him.

Take Care of Yourself

If you want to help your spouse, you have to take care of yourself. Make sure to eat a healthy diet, exercise, and get plenty of rest. You also need to set aside time for yourself. Meet a friend for coffee, go for a walk, get a pedicure, or pick up a new hobby. Focusing on yourself occasionally will keep you sane and healthy.

Attend Therapy Sessions

Do not hesitate to attend your spouse’s therapy sessions occasionally. Many drug counselors will allow close family members to attend therapy sessions. During the therapy sessions, you can learn more about the reasons behind his addiction. Your spouse will also appreciate your support.

Realize That Recovery Will Take Time

It is important to realize that recovery does not happen overnight; it takes a lot of time. If you expect your partner to recover from his opiate addiction in a few days, you are setting yourself up for disappointment. All you can do is support your spouse and take care of yourself. If he has the will and determination, he will eventually beat his addiction. Dealing with a spouse who is addicted to opiates can be very difficult. However, you can’t allow it to get the best of you. You have to support your spouse and realize he needs time to change. Do not hesitate to call a close friend or family member when you are feeling down.