Many people have someone in their life who suffers from an addiction problem, whether it be dependence on drugs, alcohol, sex, gambling, shopping, or some other form of addiction. Many have a partner who suffers from one of these addictions or a family member who continually struggles with an activity or substance dependence. Relationships between substance-dependent individuals and their partners and family members are typically considered not only painful but unsupportive and destructive. The most significant and beneficial strategies involve becoming more compassionate toward your loved one. Instead of becoming enablers, I e need to, first of all, develop compassion and then make sure they get the help they need to heal the trauma/pain that is causing the addiction.