Cutting Ties: Breaking Up With An Addict
Addiction is a serious problem and affects millions of families nationwide. There’s no doubt that you have heard about the opioid abuse epidemic and the havoc it’s causing in the communities affected by it. When it comes to protecting your family and yourself, sometimes the only option to deal with an addicted spouse is to get out.
Those who cannot cope with the pain and exhaustion of having an addicted family member may seek help. However, they might not know where to start. That’s why we’re looking at some steps to take for someone in that position.
1. Don’t Make Empty Threats
There’s no doubt about it – some situations are just terrible and the only solution is to walk away. There’s no shame in taking a stand for yourself and your family. It isn’t abandonment or neglect to admit you aren’t equipped to deal with a problem this big.
The catch is that you shouldn’t use divorce as a last-ditch attempt to change someone’s behavior. Depending on the issue, walking away might be a last resort – but if that’s the choice you make, it’s imperative to stick with it.
2. Lawyer Up
Don’t hesitate to talk to an attorney and obtain legal representation or advice about your situation. Even if you are justconsidering divorce or other legal action, consulting with an attorney to learn about your rights and options can be a valuable opportunity. If nothing else, retaining legal counsel early can be a huge resource during a very difficult time.
3. Secure Your Assets
One issue that brings addiction past tolerance is money. Most addictions are expensive and cloud a person’s judgment, particularly when it comes to spending habits. Talking to your attorney about your options to protect your financial footing is another compelling reason to seek legal help early.
4. Find Support
Addiction hurts those around the addict. Emotional manipulation, betrayal, and lies are extremely prevalent in these cases. This can lead to self-doubt and blame being placed on others unnecessarily. It’s key to remember that you are not the cause of your spouse’s addiction; and there are tons of resources and support systems you can tap into to help with that. For example, you might reach out to your friends and loved ones to let them know you’re navigating through a rough time. You could use some extra support. Additionally, you may want to consider seeking individual or group counseling to help you deal with this difficult situation.
