Domestic violence can be so complex, but we can agree that it has everything to do with a person’s desire to have power and control over another individual. When domestic violence takes place, it attributes to many causes and one of the most common one has been linked to substance abuse. I would like to explore some of the relationships between domestic violence and substance abuse. According to American Addiction Centers it is estimated that 40%-60% of reported domestic abuse incidents involve alcohol or drug usage.   

When an individual is inebriated due to the consumption of drugs or alcohol, they are more likely to lose control of their inhibitions. Therefore, they will put everyone around them in greater danger of being abused. Individuals who are under the influence of any drug could increase their likelihood of abusive behavior. Why does an individual become more abusive when under the influence of dugs or alcohol? Once the chemicals enter an individual’s brain and blood stream it can cause people to lose control of their impulses as the brain rewires to seek the substance despite the consequences. It is important to understand that substance abuse alone does not cause domestic violence. Someone with substance abuse tendencies has a higher risk of committing domestic violence. It is important to note that the risk of domestic violence increases when both individuals have a substance abuse disorder.  

Here are a few problems that may develop from substance abuse and or domestic violence: 

• Denial or Shame 
• Loss of control 
• Continued behaviors despite the consequences  
• Substance abuse  
• Depression 
• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorders 
• Anxiety 
• Eating disorders    
• Mental Health Disorders  

It is important to determine how much danger someone is in before telling them to leave a situation and seek help. Trying to leave puts the victim at a higher risk of abuse that could have severe consequences not limited to fatality. Victims need to assess their own situation and seek help once they feel safe to do so.  

Victims of domestic violence need to understand that the choices made by other individual to use and abuse drugs has nothing to do with them. Abusers may blame their partners or others for their use of abuse, their lack of accountability and use of blame is only used to excuse their behavior and repeat their abusive patterns.  

The key to sobriety is to find treatment, if you or a love one is struggling with addiction, please know there are treatment centers available for the abuser and the abused in order to help overcome substance base addiction and improve their overall quality of life.   

Helplines are open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Advocates can help answer questions and provide support for all callers (victims, family, friends).  

• SAMSHA Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration 1-(800) 662-4357  
• Illinois Domestic Violence Helpline: 1-(877) 863-6338 
• National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-(800) 799-7233 

Please remember all calls are confidential. 

-Estefania Barrientos, YWCA Northwestern Illinois La Voz Latina FAC Parent Educator/PAIP Coordinator