Life Coaching if Your Husband has Addiction Symptoms

Recognizing the Symptoms and Taking Your First Steps Toward Support and Healing

Addiction doesn’t just affect the person struggling—it ripples through marriages, families, and hearts. As a wife, it can be devastating to watch your husband show signs of addiction. You may feel scared, confused, angry, or even numb. You may ask yourself, “Is it really that bad?” or “What am I supposed to do?”

You are not alone. This post will help you:

• Recognize common symptoms of addiction

• Understand how it impacts you as a spouse

• Learn healthy, faith-based steps you can take right now

What Are Addiction Symptoms?

Addiction is a complex issue that affects the brain, emotions, and behavior. It can involve substances like alcohol, drugs, or prescription medications, or behaviors like pornography, gambling, or even excessive work. I am talking about pornography/sexual addiction, as it the one I am most familiar with.

Common Symptoms of Addiction:

• Secrecy and hiding behavior

• Mood swings or irritability

• Neglecting responsibilities at home or work

• Financial problems or unexplained spending

• Loss of interest in things they once enjoyed

• Increased isolation or avoiding family

• Lying or manipulating to cover up usage

• Repeated failed attempts to stop

• Blaming others for their behavior

If you’ve noticed any of these symptoms in your husband, it’s not just “stress.” It could be much deeper. It may be a sign that he’s struggling with addiction—and that you need support too.

How Addiction Impacts You as a Wife

Living with someone who has addiction symptoms can feel like walking on eggshells. You may feel:

• Emotionally exhausted

• Confused by the cycle of promises and letdowns

• Disconnected from God and unsure how to pray

• Unsure whether to speak up or stay silent

• Like you're slowly losing yourself

Let me say this clearly:
His addiction is not your fault.
You cannot fix him with love, prayer, or perfection.
But you can take steps to protect your heart and begin healing.

Just to be sure you got this:

His addiction is not your fault.

What Can You Do?

1. Get Honest About the Reality

It’s easy to minimize what’s happening, especially when others don’t see it. But bringing it into the light is the first step to freedom. Write down what you’ve seen and how it’s affecting you. Pray for clarity.

2. Seek Support

You don’t have to do this alone. Connect with a trauma-informed, faith-based coach, a therapist, or a support group that understands addiction and betrayal trauma. It’s not just about him getting help—you need healing too.

3. Set Boundaries

Boundaries are not punishment. They are protection. You are allowed to say:

“I won’t live with active addiction in this home.”
“I need honesty and safety to continue in this relationship.”
“I will take care of myself, even if he won’t take care of himself.”

4. Trust Yahweh With Your Next Step

You don’t need to see the whole path—just take the next faithful step. Yahweh sees your pain. He is not distant or silent. He cares about your safety, your well-being, and your future.

“The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” – Psalm 34:18

Final Thoughts

Addiction is a storm—but you don’t have to be swept away by it. You are not responsible for his healing, but you are responsible for your own. And healing is possible—with the right support, truth, and God’s guidance.

You are not alone. You are not powerless. You are not too far gone.

Lovingly,
Beth

P.S. Ready to take the next step?

If you’re living with the pain of betrayal, addiction, or emotional chaos in your marriage, let’s walk this healing journey together.
My faith-based coaching for women is designed to help you rediscover your peace, your purpose, and your strength—no matter what your husband chooses. Join my program Betrayed but Not Broken: A Survival Guide for Wives