Domestic abuse refers to the intentional use of force by one family member on another. This force can be psychological, physical, sexual or emotional. Domestic violent acts can include hitting the victim, destroying their possessions, threatening, slapping, punching and many other dangerous acts. According to research, a large number of women experience domestic violence, and a major cause is substance abuse problems in men. Substance addiction and domestic violence have been explored numerous times to identify the association between the two concepts.
Understanding the Link Between Addiction and Domestic Violence
Addiction can impact the structure and functioning of the brain. The thoughts, emotions and actions of the individual can be influenced because of substance abuse. Impulsive behaviour and emotional instability can lead to increased chances of domestic violence at home. The perpetrator may also use substances as an excuse for behaviour, and the pattern can continue for years.
Substance abuse and domestic violence often stem from deeper concerns such as a history of trauma, adverse childhood experiences and unhelpful limiting beliefs.
How Addiction Affects Relationships
Addiction can impact relationships in many different ways. Some of the possible ways how addiction affects relationships include:
1. Trust issues between partners
2. Emotional gap in the relationship
3. Increased conflicts and distance
4. Family dynamics can be influenced
5. Fear amongst children and other members
6. Isolation within the family can increase
Signs of Domestic Abuse in Addicted Relationships
Substance abuse and domestic violence can be identified in relationships through several observable signs; however, it is essential not to label and seek professional guidance for proper assessment. Signs of domestic violence in addicted relationships can include:
1. Degrading and belittling behavior
2. Threats or physical harm present
3. Extreme restriction regarding basic activities
4. Extreme control over finances
5. Isolation and withdrawal from loved ones
6. Manipulative and gaslighting behaviour
7. Extreme anxiety and fear around partner
A lot of times, the signs of domestic violence may be hidden from the outside world due to shame and guilt, along with hope of change. The cycle can look like a partner using substances, leading to domestic violence and as the impact of the substance gets reduced, the partner apologizes for misbehavior. The other partner might keep on forgiving with the hope of a better tomorrow!
The Role of Women Addiction Treatment in Domestic Violence Recovery
Women's addiction treatment in domestic violence recovery can help focus on specific challenges that they experience in their mental wellness journey. The programs can focus on trauma history and use a trauma-focused approach for supporting females. As a part of this treatment, women can work collaboratively with the mental health practitioners and gradually improve their quality of life.
Breaking the Cycle: Recovery from Addiction and Domestic Violence
Substance abuse and domestic violence can be broken with the right healthcare partner. The recovery journey requires patience and persistence. Breaking the cycle can look like:
1. Acknowledging and accepting the concern
2. Seeking professional support for overcoming concerns
3. Developing a healthy support system
4. Identifying triggers and using healthy coping techniques
5. Setting healthy boundaries and self-care activities
6. Psychoeducation about concerns to identify patterns
7. Support from a rehabilitation inpatient facility when needed
8. Developing a relapse prevention plan
Addiction and domestic violence are serious concerns influencing several families and children around the globe. The cycles can be broken for a better future!
Read Also: Gharelu Hinsa and Mansik Swasthya
How Victims of Domestic Violence Can Seek Help
Victims of domestic violence do not have to suffer in their lives. They can break the chain of suffering by seeking help and defining their inner strength. Domestic violence can be stopped, and lives can improve. The different ways of seeking support can be:
1. Reach out to loved ones, supportive family and friends
2. Connect with domestic violence helplines, NGO’s and other similar organizations.
3. Seek support from mental health professionals
4. Use a safety plan in case of emergencies
5. Legal support can be taken as a part of protecting oneself
6. Support groups for victims of domestic violence
Conclusion
Empowering women is one of the major goals of Athena OKAS. We are a female-centric mental health facility. We offer mental health support for women with concerns such as addiction and domestic violence. Our team uses trauma-focused approaches and works in a trauma-informed way to offer support for the clients.
You can learn more about our scope of work by calling us at +91 9289730444.
