Addiction can be a cruel beast, but that beast is even more cruel when it’s a relationship that is the driving factor behind it.

Across the UK it’s happening more and more, with people entering drug rehab as a result of the likes of alcohol, cocaine and heroin addiction, often driven by the relationship they are in.

That can be hugely problematic, and for those who have made it to rehab to work on their problem, that’s a success in itself, with so many people not realising that it’s the environment of their relationship that’s preventing them from getting the help they need.

It’s important to ask questions about your relationship and addiction, and here are five things to consider to understand whether the relationship you’re in is fuelling your relationship with substances…

Emotional stress and anxiety

Stress is something many relationships experience, but for those that are more stressful and can lead people to feel high levels of anxiety, it could be a huge factor in addiction.

Relationships that are fraught with conflict, arguments and even emotional manipulation can really heighten levels of stress and anxiety, and as a coping mechanism, many turn to substances.

It’s an escape from that relationship, turning to them whenever the relationship comes under strain. However, under the influence of substances, it’s more likely a relationship will be further strained, and it creates a cyclical nature that’s difficult to escape from.

Co-dependency

One of the more common ways a relationship can aid addiction is through co-dependency, a situation that really enables a person to continue their addictive tendencies.

In a relationship of this type, one person feels responsible for the other’s happiness, overlooking the more harmful behaviours, such as addiction that this is creating.

While often best-intentioned, the partner who is living with addiction may be unaware of their problem, while the co-dependent partner may be scared that changes could disrupt their relationship, even if the pattern at present is an unhealthy one.

Peer pressure and social influence

Of course, there could be the flip side to that in which your partner may be pressuring you into taking substances. This can play a significant role in driving addiction, and you may feel pressured to participate in order to not be judged or dirt in within your partner’s social circles.

Social influence in or out of a relationship can make substance abuse seem a normal part of day-to-day, but that’s incredibly dangerous.

It may be that you need to remove yourself from such groups and determine whether they are true friends and have your best interests at heart. Likewise, with your partner.

Emotional neglect or abuse

A key part of a relationship is emotional support, so for people to not receive that, for those that are feeling unloved, it can lead to feelings of worthlessness and depression.

Instead of finding the support from a partner, seeking validation outside of the relationship occurs, and often that can be through substances or alcohol.

It’s a similar story with abuse, with many who have suffered abuse in relationships finding themselves on a difficult path of substance abuse to simply survive and numb that pain. It can be a root cause of addiction, but seeking help through therapy and counselling can be just what’s needed to address that and receive the tools to get a life back on track.

Lack of support for recovery

Recovery from addiction requires a strong support system, including understanding and encouragement from one’s partner. If your partner is unsupportive or indifferent to your recovery efforts, it can be challenging to maintain sobriety. A lack of support might manifest as dismissive attitudes towards treatment, refusal to participate in recovery activities, or continued engagement in behaviours that trigger your addiction.

An unsupportive environment can undermine your efforts to recover, making it easier to relapse. Ensuring that your partner understands the importance of their role in your recovery and is willing to support your journey is crucial. This might involve couple’s therapy or open, honest conversations about your needs and expectations.

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