I have family who suffer from addiction issues.
I think addicts know or, with time, come to know the harm they can cause. Addicts, at times, lack the ability to manage themselves well. They hurt themselves and, often, those who care about them. I think they care. They also can be unable to control themselves. The cravings, especially for opiates, can become all consuming.
If one does not suffer from addiction issues it's very difficult to grasp how challenging it is for addicts. That said, my thoughts are not meant to excuse destructive behavior. Addiction isn't a free pass to do whatever the hell one wants. We are all responsible for our actions and the damage we cause.
It's totally understandable to have reached a point, while in a relationship with a person suffering with addiction, when enough is enough. One can need distance to protect themself.
I've seen a couple of people find a way to manage their addiction. Both sought out professional help and had a good support network who cared about them. All the others I've been close to self destructed eventually. Best of luck to you.
