Introduction to the Special Series on Addiction and Domestic Violence

October is National Domestic Violence Awareness Month. Domestic violence can take the form of financial, physical, or verbal abuse from an intimate partner or other family member. Domestic violence leaves a lasting physical and psychological impact on the victim and their family members, including children. Victims and their loved ones exposed to domestic violence often deal with psychological problems including anxiety, depression, and substance use disorders. The reach of domestic violence is far and wide. The World Health Organization reports that globally about 35% of women have experienced physical or sexual violence in their lifetime. According to the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence, rates in the US are similar.

Our words can only do so much to help explain why preventing domestic violence is so important. Please watch the following video to hear from a victim of domestic violence tell her story. 

Warning: the following video it might trigger upsetting thoughts or feelings:

We devote the month of October to the subject of domestic violence. We will focus on how domestic violence produces ripple effects for the victim, his or her family members, and beyond. First, we will look at how childhood abuse and exposure to violence in the family can lead to problems in adulthood include illicit drug use and excessive gambling. Later in the month, we’ll explore the effects of  childhood abuse on risky drinking and related disorders in young adults. Finally, we will report on the impact intimate partner violence among women in Appalachia has on tobacco use.

We hope you will enjoy and learn from this Special Series.  Please share your feedback using the comment link below or within the individual posts.

— John H Kleschinsky