Domestic Violence is Treatable
Domestic violence as it relates to substance abuse is not as simple as it may seem. While alcohol abuse or drug abuse may increase chances of a violent incident, and vice versa, one does not suggest the other exists. The good news from this is that domestic violence is known to be a separate issue from substance abuse, and it is treatable.
The stereotype of alcoholism in the family being the catalyst for spousal abuse and child abuse is not the norm in terms of domestic violence. It is more likely that a person with violent tendencies will become violent in cases of alcohol abuse rather than alcohol dependence. In other words, domestic violence occurrences happen more with occasional binge drinkers than daily heavy drinkers. When inhibitions are relaxed with alcohol, violence may seem justified to the abuser.
Domestic violence occurs more with illegal drug abuse than with alcohol abuse. It is widely believed that individuals with violent tendencies use drugs to avoid feelings of anger. The impairment from drugs can spark their anger at any time, likely during withdrawals at the end of a binge, and again justify violence in their minds.
In any case, domestic violence is inexcusable, and is not connected to alcohol or drug use. If alcohol or drugs are involved they are not the cause of violence, but are simply catalysts. Because of this, domestic violence must be treated along with the substance abuse problem. Otherwise, when the alcohol or drugs are removed the violent tendencies will remain a problem.
Domestic violence and anger management treatment includes individual and group sessions, as well as mental health treatment for those who need it. Family counseling is valuable in that victims of domestic violence also need to heal. These programs are equally effective for individuals whether or not they are in alcohol and drug treatment.
Tarzana Treatment Centers in Los Angeles provides the services for domestic violence above as part of our commitment to integrated behavioral healthcare. If you or a loved one needs help with alcohol dependence, drug addiction, or domestic violence, please call us now at 888-777-8565 or contact us here.
Southern California Locations for Alcohol and Drug Treatment
Tarzana Treatment Centers has locations all over Southern California in Los Angeles County. Other than our central location in Tarzana, we have facilities in Lancaster in the Antelope Valley, Long Beach, and in Northridge and Reseda in the San Fernando Valley.