9 Tips To Rebuild Trust in Addiction Recovery

rebuild trust

What Does It Take To Rebuild Trust

How can you rebuild trust in a relationship when a loved one or partner has lied to you, hurt you, frightened you, and manipulated you…possibly for years? You are certain to feel angry and resentful when all the attention is going in one direction. Helping someone else. It’s hard to trust and feel safe again.

Building trust with a partner in addiction recovery is challenging and a delicate process, but it is also an important step for helping everyone affected, including you, regain control of your lives and happiness. Here are some tips to help you both support your partner and gain your own self-respect and equilibrium while rebuilding trust during this important phase of recovery.

Be Patient And Understanding

Recovery is a process that takes time, and it is important to remember that your partner is working hard to overcome their addiction. Be patient with them and understand that they may have setbacks or slip-ups along the way.

Communicate Openly And Honestly

Communication is key in any relationship, but it is especially important when rebuilding trust. Make sure to talk openly and honestly with your partner about your feelings, concerns, and expectations. This will help you both stay on the same page and understand each other’s needs.

Be Supportive, Not Critical

It is important to be supportive of your partner during their recovery, rather than being critical of them. Addiction is a disease, and it is important to remember that your partner is not choosing to use drugs or alcohol. Show them that you believe in them and that you are there to support them through their addiction treatment and beyond..

Set Boundaries

Setting boundaries is important for both you and your partner during recovery. This includes setting limits on what you will and will not tolerate, as well as setting clear expectations for behavior. This will help your partner understand what is expected of them and what they need to do to regain your trust.

Seek Professional Help To Rebuild Trust

If you are struggling to rebuild trust with your partner, it may be helpful to seek professional help. A therapist or counselor can help you both work through your issues and develop a plan for rebuilding trust.

Be Aware Of The Triggers And Avoid Them

It is important to understand that triggers can vary greatly from person to person and can be related to emotions, situations or people. It is also essential to note that avoiding triggers completely might not always be possible, in that case, it’s important to have a plan in place to manage and cope with triggers when they arise. It’s also important for both partners to actively communicate and work together to identify and avoid triggers to prevent relapse.

Encourage Healthy Habits To Rebuild Trust

Encouraging healthy habits not only helps to improve the physical and mental well-being of your partner but also helps to create a healthy and positive environment in the relationship. Regular exercise, healthy eating, and getting enough sleep can help to improve mood, energy levels, and overall health. These healthy habits can also serve as a positive distraction from addiction and provide a sense of accomplishment and self-care which can be beneficial in the recovery process.

Practice Forgiveness To Rebuild Trust

Forgiveness is an important part of rebuilding trust, and it is important to remember that your partner is doing their best to overcome their addiction. Practice forgiveness and let go of past mistakes and hurt.

Celebrate Successes

Recognize and celebrate your partner’s successes, no matter how small they may seem. Sobriety dates, every time a task is completed, honesty when it occur. Those are successes to celebrate. Recognizing milestones will help to build their confidence and self-esteem, and it will also remind them that you are proud of them and that you believe in them.  

Jenn Walker

Jenn Walker is a freelance writer, blogger, dog-enthusiast, and avid beach goer operating out
of Southern New Jersey

More Articles To Read About Addiction And Relationships

Do You Play The Addiction Blame Game

Know The Signs Of An Abusive Relationship

What Is Resentment And Why You Have To Let It Go

Dos and Don’ts To Achieve Longterm Recovery

How To Not Take Things Personally