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Need Help!

Recently it has been brought to my attention more and more that something drastic needs to change in my life for me to start to get better. I will have been married 24 years this July. My husband is an alcoholic. He has been in and out of rehab 2x in the past. I thought about leaving him then, but I knew I couldn't support my children. So they grew up and now have mental and emotional trauma. My oldest escaped and is now a polite stranger. My 2 youngest are still home. They want to leave but they are afraid that they will be leaving me alone. About 2 years ago, he started drinking again. He tried to lie and hide it for a while, which didn't help. He has been increasingly verbally abusive to me, even in front of my kids (who are now over 18). My kids see me falling deeper and deeper into depression. My son suffers from extreme anxiety and passes out from stress. His therapist said that he is getting better, but his progress won't continue until his home life improves. She asked me what could be done to resolve the issues at home. She said that I need to give my husband  a consequence and follow up. I need to have a serious conversation with him about changes in our relationship. Or, separation, possibly leading to divorce. 

A few problems. 1. His mind is mush. He can't remember anything he has done. 2. He believes he is in the Right. Everything is my fault- the lack of intimacy, caring (in his thinking-waiting on him hand and foot (maid), one of our many arguments), money, etc. 3. he doesn't believe in AA, therapists, etc. He thinks that all of his issues can be solved by meds. He is on anti-depressants and sleep aids, among others. These cause side effects which have also affected our relationship,

Yes. I am responsible too. I only have a part-time job right now. Partly to deal with my son's medical issues. Partly because I have low self-esteem, coupled with depression. In the past I have had some extremely negative feedback, so even updating my resume gives me anxiety. The thought of going to an interview terrifies me. Another major issue is that when he goes on his rants, I shut down. I don't know how to respond back and if I open my mouth, it just goes on longer and gets worse. 

I know that he is under a lot of stress too because of money and work. I'm sure he know that if something happens because of the alcohol, he would lose his job. 

I don't know what to do. But I need to do something. I have no support. His family gives him excuses. His family and mine do not know how to deal with mental health issues or dependency. He has been increasingly controlling of my life. I feel like I'm not going to be able to hold on for very much longer. I am getting professional help slowly. But, again, I can't get better until the situation changes. 

If anyone has been in a similar situation, please give me advice. I have no one to talk to about these things. Thank you. 


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User Profile: LittleSodo
LittleSodo May 5th
I'm sorry to hear about the challenges you're facing with your husband's alcoholism and the impact it's having on your family. It's clear you're in a difficult situation, and seeking professional help is a positive step.

Having a serious conversation with your husband about the impact of his behavior may be necessary, even though he denies responsibility. Prioritizing your own self-care and mental health is crucial during this time.

Remember, you're not alone, and there are support networks available to help you navigate this challenging journey. Take things one step at a time and be gentle with yourself.
1 reply
User Profile: NotAllHere713
NotAllHere713 OP May 6th

@LittleSodo 

The therapist suggested to have a sit down conversation with him also, but I am afraid. First, I don't know how to start the conversation. Second, I am not sure how he would react. If he attacks me (verbally, as he has done in the past), I shut down. 

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@NotAllHere713,

first, you are not responsible too. You are not responsible for his behavior. If his therapist said his home life needs to improve then his therapist is wrong. HE needs to improve,  he needs to work on him.

What you need right now is space. Space for you, space away from a situation that drains you. Separation might be a good option, no matter the consequences. You need to be there for you first. The way he leads his life is his choice, his responsibility,  not yours. 

1 reply
User Profile: NotAllHere713
NotAllHere713 OP May 6th

@dukeofdearham 

Thank you for vote of confidence. I don't think he has a therapist, he's just on meds. I agree. I need space away. This is exhausting. I feel sad all the time now. I just don't know how to bring it up without making a big scene. 

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User Profile: coolvibes
coolvibes May 9th

@NotAllHere713 you are having to navigate so much and being in the middle of the storm can make seeing a pathway out very uncertain. It sounds like you have been trying to cope and keep your family together for a long time. It must be hard to witness the impact your husband’s addiction and mental issues have had on your children. Your whole family has had to cope with his unpredictable behavior it seems. Becoming reactive to aggressive behavior is a survival skill. Whether that is to go into fight, flight, or freeze. It can be completely overwhelming to have to come to terms with when time has arrived to draw the line. You deserve all the support you can surround yourself with to work towards this decision. I am curious how long his temperament stayed in check while in treatment? Looking forward to hearing from you soon.