This is not exactly the same thing Veiled, however - in my years of attending Al-Anon meetings, I have found it is quite common for the spouse of an alcoholic to feel put out and even jealous when their partner begins to heal. I went through a similar experience years ago when Jim sobered up. I saw him getting better and everyone was complimenting him on his efforts, he was happier as well. Whilst I was happy for him, I also felt a tad jealous, as I had spent the last couple of years being "the strong one" with little recognition of that fact, and suddenly he didn't need me in the same way anymore. One does get used to a certain "role", even a caretaking role, and when that changes there can be some conflict. In the long run however I was pleased he was better, it simply took me a little while to adjust.