There are a lot of different relationship tips for an addict relationship, but what ones do you actually need to follow? Dating an addict is hard, no matter what type of addict it is. Being in a relationship with an addict can be even harder, especially if you've been with that person for a while. If you're wondering exactly what relationship tips for an addict to follow, you've got to take a look below. I've got everything from getting into a support group to allowing your partner time to vent.

Thanks for sharing your thoughts.

Want more like this? Subscribe for personalized picks.

Successfully subscribed.

Check your inbox for personalized content.

1. Be Supportive

I think one of the most important relationship tips for an addict to follow is all about being supportive. You can't expect your boyfriend or girlfriend to quit their addiction all on their own, they will need a support system and if you are going to stick around, you've got to be that for them. Support them and all of their progress and it'll make you both stronger in the end!

2. Don't Pressure

An addict cannot be pressured, as they are already constantly feeling pressured, especially in the beginning, to get and stay clean. The less pressure that you add on, the better off you are going to be. Remember, supporting doesn't mean that you have to be overwhelming.

3. Curb Your Tongue

I'm not saying that you need to curb your tongue all of the time, but in the beginning, curbing your speech and not making any remarks that could be construed as judgments is going to be really smart. You don't want to come off as judgy and you don't want to make your partner even more frustrated.

4. Allow Your Partner Time to Vent

Allowing your partner time to vent is going to be critical when you are in a relationship with an addict. They need to vent about their addiction, they need to let you know how they are feeling. This will honestly be the breaking point for you and your partner – whether you can just let them vent to you. They don't typically want solutions, just a common ground where they can use you as a sounding board.

If you're looking to engage your partner in intriguing conversations, why not try some hypothetical questions for couples? These fun queries will not only keep the conversation lively but also stimulate deep thoughts and potentially reveal insights about each other's personality and thought processes.

5. Go to Therapy Together

Therapy is going to be a must when you are dating an addict, but why don't you try going to therapy with them? That's a great way to ensure that your relationship lasts and that you two grow stronger and stronger. Truthfully, I think that therapy is a great help and can really make sure that your relationship is an unbreakable bond.

6. Understand the Addiction

Therapy will also help you understand their addiction. If you've never been an addict, you probably don't understand their addiction and exactly what they are going through. This can cause a lot of resentment and can actually lead to breakups, if you let it.

7. Know What You Are Getting into

Before you jump head first into a relationship with an addict, you've got to know what you are getting yourself into. Being in a relationship with an addict is incredible, but it is a lot of work and you've got to make sure that you are careful and you don't allow them to relapse.

8. Have a Support Group Yourself

Finally, a support group for you, with people who are in a relationship with an addict could save you! A support group like this is a great way for you to vent and for you to get things off of your chest, without your partner finding out!

While being in a relationship with an addict can be really difficult, it is so worth it in the end. Have you ever been in a relationship with an addict? How did you handle it? Tell me!

Thanks for sharing your thoughts.

Want more like this? Subscribe for personalized picks.

Successfully subscribed.

Check your inbox for personalized content.

Feedback Junction

Where Thoughts and Opinions Converge

NZ
2013-04-06T23:38:25.000Z
@Lizbeth i'm in a relationship with an addict and it's depressing . Not one of my most incredible relationships .
Nicole
2013-04-07T01:57:31.000Z
I've been in a relationship with someone for over 4 years. he was addicted and is still recovering (and sometimes relapsing) for 2 years of the relationship. id have to agree with you that is it is difficult. But, in turn its all about how you look at it. If the majority of your relationship is healthy, then you have chance. You need good communication, dedication and be able to sacrifice. I love your tips.. its a good foundation to follow. Each and every relationship from there can hopefully blossom as they support each other
Victoria
2013-04-07T04:19:08.000Z
I'm in love with an addict, We have a 6 month old baby boy, times are tough right now and I have lost all hope..the drugs won. hardest thing to do is watch someone you love let something take over their life and control them.
Lindsey
2013-04-08T00:08:36.000Z
My hubby and I are both recovering addicts. We started the recovery process together and we've helped each other through ever since. It really helps when you can relate to each other and know what the other person is going through.
heather
2013-04-07T07:09:17.000Z
This post sends out wrong messages to girls. Being in a relationship with a addict is NOT incredible in any way!!!!
Kathy
2013-04-07T01:24:06.000Z
I'm not in a love relationship with a addict so on that level I may not completely understand but my son is a recovering addict, he's been clean and sober for a while now, I see a difference in him a big difference, he's more mature, trying harder at this recovery this time then ever before, he was using on and off for about 10 years and he and our family have been to hell and back I would never ever wish it on anyone. But today he has completed goals, and has many more goals and dreams then he's had in a long time. We are so proud of him, but yes for a girlfriend, boyfriend, husband and wife it can be a very hard road. But what will make it better and easier to understand the disease is all of these tips, thank you so much for this article. And I believe the part about that the relationship can be incredible comes from when the addict gets help and gets clean and sober and they both get help in the relationship thank you again, ;)"
Brandi
2013-04-07T05:15:20.000Z
I am the recovering addict in my relationship. It's not necessarily a drug addiction, but it is an addiction none the less. I've only been dating my current boyfriend for a few weeks, but I'm also newly recovering. I was doing well with my recovery until I lost my biggest supporter last summer and things went sour for me again. I just turned my life around before this guy came into my life, and we've been friends forever so I knew I could trust him enough to help me recover. And so far, he has been great about it. When he first found out, it was a little rocky, but he told me he was willing to stick with me and make things work. He said he would always do his best to be there for me and give me an outlet so I didn't relapse. He's been soo good for me this far into our relationship and I couldn't be happier :)