How Alcohol Destroys Your Relationships

/in /by

Alcohol affects almost every aspect of a person’s life. This includes their health, finances, longevity, and personal relationships. The loved one of an addict often suffers through the loss of a valued relationship because of the many devastating effects of alcohol. The consequences of alcohol addiction can destroy the personality of the one you love, the trust you shared with them, and the commitment to have a relationship in the future. Learn more about how alcohol destroys your relationships by continuing to read below.

The Sanctuary Recovery Foundation provides sober living homes that are safe, supportive, and encouraging. Contact us to learn more about how we can help you or a loved one.

Alcohol Affects Personality

As a result of alcohol’s effect on the brain’s frontal lobe, it commonly causes an addict to experience mild to severe personality changes. These chemical changes within the brain impair cognitive ability, expression of emotions, and reactions to people and events. Friends and family realize that alcohol changes the personality of their loved ones and their relationship with them. Understanding these effects can help you recognize and cope more patiently during the journey to sobriety. Some of the typical negative personality consequences of consuming alcohol include:

  • Extreme reactions to real and imagined threats or inconveniences.
  • Irrational suspicions of other people’s words or actions.
  • Loss of self-control, including the taking of unnecessary and dangerous risks.
  • Decreased motivation that may affect the desire to work, go to school, or achieve goals.

Alcohol Affects Trust

Alcohol dependence usually causes individuals to become more secretive about their drinking habits. This often begins as a defense mechanism to protect the relationship. However, as alcohol consumption increases, blatant lies and broken promises can destroy the fabric of trust that holds relationships together. It is important to remember this loss of trust can be restored during sobriety. Tips for renewing a trusting relationship with an alcoholic include:

  • Keep the lines of communication open.
  • Keep your promises.
  • Be honest about the loss of trust you feel.
  • Suggest means of accountability to foster trust.
  • Acknowledge setbacks to the reestablishment of trust and commit to continuing to move forward to an improved relationship.

Alcohol Affects Commitment

Commitment powerfully influences how an individual behaves in a relationship. All relationships must weather challenges, tough times, and threats to the dedication two people have to remain together. But two people’s resolve and devotion can endure significant turbulence if they have committed to one another. Unfortunately, alcohol addiction renders a person less capable of committing to another person as their life increasingly commits to drinking. Additionally, the person in recovery is asked to commit to the major life change of pursuing sobriety instead of the next drink. You likely experienced the loss of commitment in your relationship with your loved one on the journey toward sobriety. During this time of recovery, committing to your loved one can help them reach the goals of sobriety and healthy relationships.

Sanctuary Recovery Foundation

Our caring professionals understand the relationship challenges created by alcohol addiction. We welcome you to visit us and learn how we can help strengthen you and build your faith to live a happy and sober life. Contact us for more information on the Sanctuary Recovery Foundation located in Charleston, SC.