Alcohol is a part of many people’s lives and for the most part, it’s drunk moderately and used in a way that doesn’t harm a relationship, but rather complements it, used to celebrate during the good times, in the company of friends and generally be something that can be enjoyed responsibly.
However, that’s not always the case and thousands upon thousands of relationships have been significantly affected by booze. In fact, visit any NHS alcohol rehab and you’ll find that people getting help are not only doing so for their own health, but to improve their relationships with partners, friends and family members too.
Alcohol can affect relationships in many ways, and if you’ve noticed the following, it may be time to assess your or your partner’s relationship with the substance…
Communication Breakdown
The key to success in any relationship is healthy and effective communication. It keeps our relationships strong, both on the same page and allows us to understand each other’s thoughts and feelings.
Alcohol can significantly impact that, with people under the influence of alcohol unable to think clearly or articulate thoughts effectively. This can lead to misinterpretations and misunderstandings that can cause arguments and fallings out over the most trivial of matters. In fact, in many cases it can spiral into more significant exchanges that are hurtful, causing emotional, and sadly sometimes physical, scars that linger long after the alcohol has worn off. What’s more, they can continue to arise the next time alcohol is consumed and lead to a vicious cycle.
Increased Conflict and Aggression
As mentioned, conflict is common in relationships that are fueled by alcohol, and it can lead to impulsive and aggressive behaviours. Even the most mild mannered of people can find themselves reacting more irrationally when under the influence of alcohol.
That can cause more arguments, fights and fallings out and can really damage trust and respect in a relationship. It may also lead to a partner feeling unsafe in their home, which is absolutely heartbreaking for both sides, and a clear sign help is needed.
Erosion of Trust
Alcohol has a real habit of chipping away at trust. It may be from continual arguments, but it is often down to the likes of broken promises or impulsive behaviour causing problems in a relationship.
People who drink regularly are more likely to ditch their responsibilities for the booze, becoming unreliable, while there may even be trust broken from saying they’ll stop drinking but the next week or next day behaving exactly the same. That erosion of trust in a relationship can be very difficult to come back from.
Neglect of Responsibilities
The neglect of responsibilities is one of the most common faux pas when it comes to drinking. It could be a person ditching spending quality time due to drinking, to doing household chores, or even things like being able to pick the kids up as a result of being over the limit.
It can also lead to financial problems too, which can see people neglect their saving goals or being even in a relationship. This can lead to a real imbalance in relationships, which can lead to the likes of frustration and burnout in the other half.
Emotional Distance and Intimacy Issues
Finally, alcohol can create emotional distance between partners, particularly when one partner’s drinking becomes a source of concern or resentment. The partner who drinks excessively may become emotionally unavailable, either due to being under the influence or as a result of the shame and guilt associated with their drinking habits. This emotional withdrawal can make it difficult to maintain a close, intimate connection. Moreover, alcohol can negatively impact sexual intimacy. While a drink or two might help some people relax, excessive alcohol consumption can lead to a decrease in sexual desire and performance issues. Over time, these issues can contribute to a decline in overall relationship satisfaction.