Alcohol & Drugs

Alcohol and drug misuse can feature in an abusive relationship and at times can be used as an excuse for abusive behaviour. Alcohol or drug use does not cause abusive or violent behaviour and the majority of problem drinkers do not behave in an abusive manner.

Some abusive people never use drink or drugs and there is no evidence to suggest that alcohol dependence or drug use is the cause of abusive or violent behaviour.

Some survivors who are in an abusive relationship may use alcohol or drugs as a means of coping with the abuse and violence.