Almost everyone is affected by domestic violence in one way or another, and victims may include sisters, mothers, aunts and other loved ones in our own lives. Domestic violence is often physical, but it can be mental and psychological too. The root issue when it comes to domestic violence is control and the abuse often extends into other areas, like financial and sexual.
The cycle of domestic violence follows a pattern that keeps the victims feeling trapped in the relationship. The tension builds as the abuse gets worse, often culminating in a particularly bad incident. Then there is what is referred to as the honeymoon phase, where the abuser tries to make up by being nicer than normal, buying gifts, or other behavior that is out of the ordinary. Once two parties have started going through the cycle, both may find it impossible to change the pattern without breaking free of that partner altogether.
Substance Abuse & Domestic Violence: A Common Occurrence
The combination of addiction and domestic violence only makes both situations worse. Many drugs allow users to lose their inhibitions, making it possible for them to hurt their partners in ways they normally wouldn’t.
Especially since there is such a strong need for control in domestic violence situations, losing control while doing drugs can cause people to make bad decisions and act out in ways that are violent and out of character. The guilt they feel when they realize what they have done only makes them feel worse, without being able to address the issues that led to domestic violence.
When both partners in an intimate relationship have substance abuse issues, the problems are exacerbated even more. Neither party will be able to step back and give the situation a rational assessment, and both partners can experience negative outcomes, including depression, stress disorders and PTSD.
Post Traumatic Stress Disorder & Domestic Violence
Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, or PTSD, is a lasting consequence when someone has experienced a traumatic event, such as abuse. The symptoms last long past the time of the event, with the victim unable to function as well after. Many who suffer from PTSD don’t realize that it is serious, and may even blame themselves for the events that caused them to experience these symptoms.
While many people associate PTSD with soldiers and war, any kind of trauma can lead to PTSD. Women especially have reasons they might suffer from this syndrome. 1 out of every 4 girls will be the victim of sexual abuse before she turns 18, and half of adult women report that they suffer rape from an intimate partner at some point. 3 women are killed by a former or current partner every day, and 1 of 4 women experience extreme physical abuse at some point.
PTSD can affect every area of life, including mental, physical and spiritual. Symptoms may not start for 3 months,  and again they may not be recognized for what they are. Victims of PTSD often find themselves experiencing the trauma over and over again, and they may find themselves the people who would be able to provide needed comfort. Treatment for PTSD may include medication prescribed by a license physician and psychotherapy, including individual and group therapy.
Women’s Substance Abuse Treatment Options
There are many components to addiction treatment, and in the be,ginning especially patients may need to be in a place which is physically safe in order to detox. There should also be a physician available to prescribe and monitor medications, and chances to engage in various forms of therapy. It is especially important that the treatment center chosen understands whatever unique issues the patient may have.
Newport Beach Recovery offers both inpatient and outpatient treatment services to address the unique needs of women in recovery. If you or a loved one could benefit from our unique program, or if you have questions about our offerings, please don’t hesitate to call Newport Beach Recovery at 1-855-213-3869.
