February is Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month: Get Involved
2/27/2024
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Substance Abuse
11/23/2016
Substance abuse is defined as the overindulgence in or dependence on an addictive substance, such as alcohol or drugs. It is often said that substance abuse is a direct cause of domestic violence, but this is untrue. Substance abuse does NOT cause domestic violence but it can definitely escalate a situation. The fact is domestic violence is a choice. People who are addicted to substances may display some of the following characteristics:
- Moods swings
- Financial problems
- Work problems
- Family problems
- Defensiveness
- Paranoia
- Inability to concentrate
- Easily agitated and irritated
- Illogical thinking
- Manic behavior
- Symptoms of withdrawal
After looking at these characteristics, it is easy to see that there are a lot of issues that could arise in intimate relationships when substance abuse is present. A lot of the characteristics cause a lot of tension in a relationship. An abusive partner might blame drugs or alcohol instead of accepting the responsibility for their actions. It’s important to remember that abuse is about power and control.
At times it might even seem easier to accept substance abuse as the cause for poor treatment. Using substance abuse to justify and excuse violence is not okay. Let’s be real, there are lots of people who use drugs and alcohol without being abusive. There are many resources to help those who are struggling with substance abuse. If you or someone you know is in an abusive relationships or needs help with substance abuse check out some of the links below for more information and support.
- Megan Oleski, Youth Education Specialist
Fresno County Young People in Alcoholics Anonymous
Central California Narcotics Anonymous
Marjaree Mason Center
559-233-HELP (4357)
Love Is Respect
National Domestic Violence Hotline
1-800-799-SAFE (7233)