Alcohol dependence, alcohol use disorder, is one of the most common addiction individuals struggle with. Not only can alcoholism wreak havoc on someone’s personal life, but also it dramatically affects every single relationship they are a part of. Perhaps, the most significant and most detrimental impacts come at the level of intimacy, partnership, and marriage. Alcohol destroys many romantic relationships, results in estranged marriages and causes a huge discourse between families.
Research shows that each year, more than 10 million women and men will experience physical abuse at the hands of a romantic partner. Physical violence may manifest itself when an intoxicated partner becomes aggressive or confused. Serious alcohol addiction can create troubling patterns of control that make it difficult for them to leave safely. In fact, most violence toward women occurs when she tries to leave an abusive situation.
The reasons about why alcohol can negatively affect our intimate relations are;
It’s a drug. By definition, alcohol (even in small amounts) can alter a person’s emotions, perception, and thought process. A known depressant, alcohol can lower your mood and inhibitions—a potential recipe for faster-to-fight situations between you and your partner.
It enjoys a cultural “pass.” Alcohol is widely accepted in the culture. Consciously or not, we often downplay its negative effects and view it as an almost mandatory aspect of celebrating, de-stressing, and so on. Case in point: Have you ever said something like: “I only said that because I was drunk,” “We only fight when we’ve been drinking,” or “We can’t celebrate our anniversary without wine?” These could be red flags that you’re failing to recognize the power that alcohol can have on you and your partner.
Its psychological effects directly influence social interaction. We already alluded to the idea that alcohol can impact your mood. To be more specific, heavy or even moderate drinking can cause a person to be more aggressive, disinhibited, defensive, sensitive, and irrational. These psychological effects can persist even after alcohol is out of your system, and in the long term can change brain function.
Alcohol addiction is an epidemic across the world. The CDC estimates that six people die every day from alcohol poisoning. Of the 15 million people that struggle with alcohol misuse, less than eight percent seek help for their addictions. If you or your partner is indulged in alcohol or any such substance abuse habit, it is in the best interest of all to seek medical help and care from an expert of the field. Serene Retreat is one of the leading Addiction and Mental Health Treatment provider based in Malaysia with its branches locally and abroad which is working for the betterment of the people and working on their treatment processes with all the SOPs in practice and continue to bring healthy positive changes in their lifestyles. For more information about our treatment programs you can reach us via Call/Whatsapp +60 14-687 2268 or visit our website www.sereneretreat.com.my.
