THE BRUTAL REALITY OF HOW DRUG ABUSE CAN INSTIGATE DATING VIOLENCE

Researchers around the world will strongly emphasize how drugs can wreak havoc on your body and can potentially ruin your relationships with your family members and friends. Still, have you ever considered how a person falls victim to relationship abuse due to the aggressive, demanding, and (at times) psychotic behavior of a formerly loving partner? The truth of the matter is very sad. At times, people will suffer from mild to severe forms of dating violence. In this case, drug abuse can result in severe and aggressive dating violence, particularly amongst teenagers. Let’s take a closer look at this problem and see what can be done to avoid it.

Different Types of Dating Violence

Dating Violence is defined as aggression or violence expressed between two people. The CDC (Center for Disease Control) has identified four types:

• Physical: showing aggression towards a partner by hitting, shoving, or kicking them
• Emotional/psychological: breaking down a partner’s spirit and isolating them through bullying
• Stalking: continuously and uncomfortably harassing a person (can take place on the internet)
• Sexual: threatening a partner or physically forcing them to have sex with them (can also include threats to reveal secrets about unwarranted sexual activity)

As part of the 2015 National Youth Risk Behavior Survey, 10% of teenagers admitted to falling victim to a form of dating violence, while an additional 10% were victims of unwarranted sexual harassment or violence.

Why Do Drug Abuse Instigate Violence?

Experts specify that some types of drugs instigate erratic or psychotic behavior in users, which can ultimately result in crumbling relationships. For example drugs like cocaine, Spice, meth, and marijuana are particularly notorious for instigating feelings of anger and anxiety, symptoms that can ultimately trigger violence.

Signs of Addiction

If you believe a partner could be abusing drugs or may be an addict, here are some warning signs to keep in mind:

• Failure to stay motivated about projects
• Frequent shaking and erratic speech
• Radical changes in habits and routines
• Poor hygiene
• Failure to keep up with social circles
• Lack of interest in hobbies or activities

Always remember that drugs do not have control over your life. You do. Are you suffering from a substance abuse disorder or addiction? Do you have a friend or family member suffering from one or more of these debilitating illnesses? If you do, get in touch with Asana Recovery today. Out counselors and healthcare, experts are ready to walk you through every step of the detox and withdrawal process and rehabilitation and guide you towards living a happier, healthier, and freer lifestyle. While the road to recovery might not be an easy road to travel, we promise to help you every step of the way. Take the first step to stay fit, healthy, and safe.

The time for you to take back control of your life is now. If you are interested in one of our residential treatment or supervised detoxification/withdrawal programs, we are ready and waiting to speak with you at your disclosure. Call Asana now at (949) 438-4504 to learn how to overcome your drug addiction troubles today.