Is your spouse’s substance abuse tearing your marriage apart?
When the two of you married, life seemed to be opening up a door of adventures and love. You knew this person so well, and as a couple, you just clicked. Whatever obstacles would get in your way, you knew you would face it, hand in hand, together. What you did not count on was one of those obstacles being your spouse’s substance abuse problem. Maybe the addiction started slowly. There were signs, but you are busy, and you ignored them. Maybe the abuse came out of nowhere, consuming both of your lives before you knew the seriousness of the problem at hand.
Either way, what was once a life of normalcy and love, turns into a nightmare. You are filled with anger, sorrow, resentfulness, and your trust for your partner is now gone. The hospital and doctor’s offices become like a second home. You stood by your spouse and took up the slack in your everyday lives, and ignored your own health because theirs overshadowed yours. There is finally a breaking point, and marriage is no longer an option. What now?
Facing the fact that a loved one has a substance abuse problem can be painful and affects everyone involved. However, you should know you’re not alone. Resources and support are available for both you and your spouse. Remember that you can’t force someone to give up alcohol or an addictive substance. The choice is up to them to be willing to change.
You may also benefit from joining a group such as Al-Anon, a free peer support group for families coping with alcoholism. Listening to others with the same challenges can serve as a tremendous source of comfort and support.
If you have decided that divorce is the appropriate next step and need a family lawyer, contact the Remsen Family Law Firm When divorcing a spouse with substance abuse problems, having an attorney by your side can help guide you through a difficult process. Florida is a ‘No-Fault Divorce’ state, which means that either party can seek a divorce on the grounds of the marriage being “irretrievably broken.” When there is a substance abuse issue in the marriage and possible mental health issues, custody and alimony arrangements can be affected. Florida courts take substance abuse very seriously. If there are children involved, the spouse with the substance abuse problem may have their custody affected. In rare instances, the spouse with the substance abuse problem may seek alimony to cover medical treatments.
If you are having marital issues with a partner that suffers from substance abuse, it is essential that you take action. Contact the Law Office of Frank P. Remsen, P.A. We will guide you through the divorce process and assist with any related family law matters.
