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How can Couples Overcome Alcohol’s Effects on Relationships?

Do you increasingly choose to drink over other things that you used to enjoy with your significant other? Alcohol is a psychoactive substance that can cause changes in mood, awareness, thoughts, and behavior. These changes can lead to various issues and can make you act in ways that can drive a wedge between you and the people around you. Unfortunately, studies consistently demonstrate that, regardless of the sex of the partner with AUD, if at least one person in the relationship has an AUD, the risk of DV is high. April Eldemire, LMFT, is a psychotherapist who specializes in marriage and couples issues, new-parenthood transitions and blended family dynamics. Now think how many of them occurred when one or both of you were under the influence of alcohol.

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It can lead to increased aggression, impulsivity, or emotional vulnerability, often causing you to act in ways that are different from your sober self. Having alcohol in your system makes it easier to do and say things we wouldn’t do otherwise. For some it’s about being able to relax in social situations which would normally induce anxiety; for others, it makes the party more fun. Everyone responds to alcohol differently- and the way you react to alcohol may be a problem. Alcohol can affect our relationships in all sorts of ways and can have a negative impact on our own health and wellbeing and that of those we love.

Drinking Alcohol Triggers Secretive Behavior

• Alcohol has the potential to wreak havoc on relationships, causing significant damage and turmoil.
• Alcohol withdrawal symptoms can include delirium tremens (DTs), a potentially life-threatening condition.
• Research shows that alcohol is involved in about 55% of domestic abuse cases, highlighting a serious connection between drinking and violence.
• The information we provide is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.

Children may lose faith in their parents with AUD, or become estranged from them. Friends might start to keep their distance how does alcohol affect relationships due to the breakdown in healthy communication. Strong relationships can help to support a person who requires medical treatment for alcohol addiction. Family members can work together to make sure that their loved one makes it to doctor appointments and that they take their medication as directed.

• The connection between alcohol, interpersonal violence and codependency is widely documented.
• When a person is intoxicated, their emotions, judgment, and decision-making are impaired.
• Trust also encourages open, honest communication, which allows for people to resolve conflicts and make it through difficult challenges.

• Even if you have a powerful connection with the person you love, this can be diminished by a strong need and desire to drink.
• Recovery.com combines independent research with expert guidance on addiction and mental health treatment.
• Alcohol has been a part of human culture for centuries and has been an integral part of many social and religious events.

In this section, we explore ten key reasons why alcohol can disrupt and how alcohol destroys relationships. It lowers inhibitions, intensifies emotions, and impairs judgment, leading to increased arguments, volatile outbursts, and a higher likelihood of engaging in destructive behaviors during disagreements. Among routine drinkers, 44% of those who are aware of the news say it will lead to them drinking a lot less or a little less. Among those who drink a few times a month, 46% say it will lead to them cutting back. For both groups, the shares who say they will cut back a little are bigger than Substance abuse the shares who plan to cut back a lot. Pew Research Center conducted this analysis to understand Americans’ attitudes and behaviors around alcohol use.

This is because persons who misuse alcohol are more likely to prioritize their own demands for alcohol over those of their partner. Misuse of alcohol frequently results in emotional separation within a relationship and is another way alcohol ruins relationships. Dylan Banks offers sharp insights on relationships, love, and human connection. A leading expert, he’s passionate about helping others build meaningful connections.

• While 12-step programs and inpatient rehabilitation are standard options, thanks to years of research, everyone can find a solution to help them reach sobriety.
• A majority of routine drinkers (59%) say their alcohol use increases their risk of serious physical health problems at least a little.
• There are also many resources available to help couples come to terms with their drinking and make healthy changes.
• From impaired judgment and communication breakdowns to increased conflict and trust issues, understanding the destructive impact of alcohol is essential for maintaining healthy and fulfilling relationships.
• “While we drink, the liver can become inflamed or undergo dehydration, which can exacerbate hangover symptoms the following day,” says Dr Grant.