Living with a husband who was addicted to alcohol and drugs was the hardest thing I’ve ever faced. For many years, I watched James, the man I married, slowly lose control of his life. Our home became a place of pain, fear, and constant arguments.
We have two young children, aged seven and ten. They were always afraid. They would hide in their rooms whenever James came home drunk or high. His behavior changed—he became aggressive, moody, and careless.
As a mother, I felt I was losing not only my husband, but also the peace of our family.
I tried everything I could. I talked to him many times. I begged him to go for counseling or join a support group. Friends and neighbors suggested rehab centers or medication. But James refused all help. He said he was fine, even when it was clear he was not.
There were nights I cried alone in the kitchen, wondering if my marriage would survive. I couldn’t sleep. I couldn’t eat. I felt alone, broken, and helpless.
But then, I decided not to give up.
I changed my approach. Instead of forcing him, I showed him love and support without pressure. I spoke to a counselor on my own to learn how to handle the situation better.
I prayed daily, asking God for strength and guidance. I also spoke to a local pastor who later offered to meet James in a friendly and non-judgmental way.
Surprisingly, the pastor’s words touched James. He finally agreed to go to a nearby rehabilitation center. It was a small but hopeful step.
His recovery was not easy. There were relapses, and many times he wanted to quit. But I stayed by his side, encouraging him every day. Slowly, he started to change.
He attended therapy sessions, joined a support group, and made new sober friends who helped him stay strong.
It has now been nine months since James last touched alcohol or drugs. Our home feels different—there is laughter, peace, and love. Our children are no longer scared. They play freely and even hug their father again.
This journey taught me that healing is possible—but it takes patience, love, and faith. Addiction can destroy lives, but with the right support, recovery is real.
To anyone going through a similar struggle, please don’t give up. Seek help, take care of your mental health, and keep believing. Change is possible.
Key Lessons:
Addiction affects the whole family, not just the person struggling.
Love, patience, and persistence are powerful tools in healing.
Getting help for you as a partner is just as important.
Support from faith, community, and professionals makes a difference.
Recovery is a journey, not a one-day event.
