Contributor: Crystal Karges, MS, RDN, IBCLC, Special Projects Coordinator at Eating Disorder Hope/Addiction Hope
Many lines and boundaries are often crossed when under the influence of drugs or alcohol. For the individual who struggles with addiction, understanding the components of a healthy relationship can often become a blur. Through the addiction recovery process, a person can begin to restore relationships in their own lives that may be broken as a result of an addiction.
It is also possible that new relationships can be formed that are based and founded on principles that reflect positivity, trust and respect for one another.
As healthy relationships are often a key cornerstone to life and recovery, it is important to know what aspects are desirable in friendships and relationships, especially through addiction recovery.
Desirable Traits and Characteristics for a Healthy Relationship
If you or a loved one is recovering from addiction and looking to establish healthy relationships, be aware of the following desirable traits and characteristics:
Trust and Honesty:
In order to have a healthy relationship, it is absolutely necessary to be open and honest with one another. This includes being able to talk about past struggles, obstacles, challenges and more. Being honest with one another is also crucial with addiction recovery, in which a person is often accountable to their family, friends and loved ones.
Solid Communication:
Being able to effectively communicate with a person is a key component to having a healthy relationship. When difficult situations or scenarios arise, it is essential to talk through these situations, to be able to communicate with one another is a loving and productive way.
Positivity:
Remaining positive and loving are also important aspects of a healthy relationship. In a world that often tears people down, being and feeling safe in a relationship is needed for growth, trust, and communication.
Reliability:
Faithfulness and endurance are also essential building blocks of a healthy relationship. Staying committed to one another through the ups and downs are life are key to the longevity and fruitfulness of a healthy relationship.
Having a healthy relationship is possible, especially as you or your loved one go through the process of recovering from addiction. If you find yourself struggling with relationship problems in your recovery, be sure to access the help and support of a professional therapist or counselor, who could also provide you with tools and resources.
Community Discussion – Share your thoughts here!
What do you think are signs of a healthy relationship in addiction recovery?
Last Updated & Reviewed By: Jacquelyn Ekern, MS, LPC on June 26th, 2015
Published on AddictionHope.com