How Can I Help My Partner Who Is Struggling with Addiction?

Watching someone you love struggle with addiction can be heart-breaking, frustrating, and confusing. Many partners reach out to Get Help Global asking how they can support a spouse, boyfriend, or girlfriend without enabling harmful behaviour.

The truth is, you cannot force someone into recovery. Change must come from the individual. However, there are practical strategies that can increase the likelihood your partner takes that first step toward getting help.

“Recovery starts with connection. Even a simple call or message can be the bridge that encourages someone to take that life-changing first step.”

Ruben Mas, Founder of Get Help Global

Understanding How To Help An Addict

Many partners contact us saying:

“I’ve threatened to leave so many times, but nothing changes.”

Repeated threats without follow-through often lose their impact. Addiction can cloud judgment, and your loved one may not realise the consequences of their actions. At Get Help Global, we advise turning threats into promises. Clear, actionable steps that show you’re serious about your boundaries.

Turning Threats Into Promises

Instead of saying:

“I’m leaving, I’ve had enough.”

Consider saying:

“I’ve spoken to a friend and I will be moving in with her this Friday. I will take the kids with me. Everything is organised. You have until Friday afternoon to reach out for help.”

This transforms a vague threat into a concrete promise, which can create a sense of urgency and clarity. It’s no longer a warning; it’s a plan. Often, this is the catalyst that prompts someone to make the biggest step in their recovery — contacting professionals and committing to change.

“It doesn’t matter why someone starts their recovery — what matters is that they start. Eventually, they will realise they need help for themselves and their family.”

Ruben Mas, Founder of Get Help Global

Practical Ways to Help Your Partner With Addiction

1. Stay Calm and Compassionate
   Avoid arguments or lectures. Approach the conversation from a place of love, concern, and concern for safety.
   
2. Encourage Professional Help
   Offer resources and support to get them connected to services like Get Help Global’s addiction programs. Sometimes a gentle nudge is more effective than repeated ultimatums.
   
3. Set Clear Boundaries
   Be explicit about what you will and will not tolerate. Boundaries are not punishments; they are protective measures for both you and your partner.
   
4. Provide Support, Not Enablement
   Help with practical steps like arranging transportation to appointments or helping them call a counsellor but avoid taking responsibility for their recovery.
   
5. Plan Your Actions in Advance
   If you need to leave for your safety or wellbeing, organise your plan carefully. Communicate the plan clearly so your partner understands the consequences of not seeking help.
   
6. Involve the Family When Appropriate
   If there are children, ensure their safety and wellbeing remain a priority. Sometimes knowing their actions impact loved ones can motivate someone to seek help.

Be Patient Addiction Recovery Takes Time

Recovery is rarely linear. Even after a partner decides to seek help, setbacks are common. Stay supportive but firm with your boundaries. Celebrate progress, however small, and continue to encourage engagement with professional services.

Connecting someone to help may start with a simple phone call or text. At Get Help Global, we assist partners by guiding these first steps and helping turn intentions into meaningful action.

Do You Need Support In Helping A Partner With Addiction?

Supporting a partner with addiction is challenging, but your actions can make a real difference. Clear boundaries, actionable promises, and professional guidance are often the keys to prompting someone to seek help.

Recovery is possible and it often starts with a single courageous step.

If your partner is struggling, don’t wait. Contact our Founder, Ruben Mas, for a free consultation on 0426 794 453, or reach out via our contact page to explore the best ways to support your loved one safely and effectively.

---

Latest Posts