My Husband is Addicted to Pills and Alcohol and Is In a Long-Term Rehab Facility?

by Laura C
(Louisiana)

My Husband and I have been married for almost two years but have dated since we were about 10 years old. My husband entered a long-term inpatient rehab facility which is around two years long. He will graduate the program once he's completed all the requirements to leave the facility.

He's been in the facility for about 4 months now. My question is ... I know he's changing for the better and is really working on himself and I couldn't ask for more. But I struggle with the thought that if he changes too much will he not love me anymore with that change or am I feeling like that because of the struggles I've gone through to help him in the past?

Alcoholism-and-Drug-Addiction-Help.com Answer

Hi Laura

Your husband is where he needs to be, and the fact that he's obviously totally committed to turning his life around from his addiction to pain pills and alcohol, is great news.

But doubting where that may leave your relationship when he eventually 'gets out' is normal and understandable. He'll have no doubt changed tremendously, but that isn't something you should fear, it's something you should look forward to.

Isn't the whole purpose of our existence to grow and evolve? - so while your husband is doing that in rehab, now is a great opportunity for you to do the same. That's why while your husband is working hard at himself in rehab and hopefully changing for the better, why don't you do the same?

Start focusing on your own needs and happiness, and rediscover what brings you joy and gives your life purpose. Because ultimately the most important relationship we'll ever have with anyone is the relationship we have with ourselves - if that is good, the rest of our life will tend to fall into place.

We can't guarantee what the future holds, but if your husband leaves rehab and sees the sparkle in your eye, your confidence and your zest for life - he probably won't be able to help but fall in love with you all over again.

But those things don't just happen by themselves - we have to work at it. Growing spiritually, mentally and emotionally takes ongoing effort and commitment. So work at becoming all you can be, and trust that in doing so, everything will work out for the best.

Good Luck and Take Care

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