Alcohol and violence: a toxic relationship

By Iesha Richards, USAG Ansbach ASAP Prevention CoordinatorApril 21, 2015

Alcohol and violence: a toxic relationship
ANSBACH, Germany (April 20, 2015) -- Excessive amounts of alcohol may amplify pent up aggression and depression, putting additional strain on troubled relationships. Having the courage to seek help for you and your family may be the most important de... (Photo Credit: U.S. Army) VIEW ORIGINAL

ANSBACH, Germany (April 20, 2015) -- Why is alcohol linked to many instances of family violence? Alcohol does not cause violence. Alcohol, however, is often a factor in violent acts among the general American population, as well as in the U.S. Army Garrison Ansbach community.

Often in cases of family violence (spousal and child abuse), sexual assault, physical assault and suicides, it is determined that individuals have high blood-alcohol content levels. In many alcohol-related crimes, both the person committing the crime and the victim have been drinking.

Alcohol is a powerful substance that causes detectable impairment on brain function. This impairment may lead to defective thinking, lack of control, slow reaction time, increased aggression, feelings of depression and erratic behavior.

When large amounts of alcohol are consumed, normally logical individuals are likely to ignore their own common sense and values. It also becomes more difficult to maintain self-control, as an intoxicated person may misread emotions in themselves and others.

A combination of these symptoms creates toxic thinking, leading to violent behaviors.

What is the best way to deal with issues in my relationship?

It is normal for everyone to encounter different forms of stress in their daily lives. How each individual chooses to deal with these stressors may determine the difference between a positive outcome and a negative consequence. To increase the likelihood of a healthy outcome to one's problem, it is vital to deal with the problem while sober and thinking clearly.

What should I do if I am a victim?

If you are a victim of violence, it is important to remember you are not to blame. Individuals who have a problem with alcohol and violence in their Families may come to believe it is a normal part of a Family. Violence in the family is not normal and should not be accepted.

Attempting to protect yourself or someone you know from the truth about his or her issues with alcohol and violence only reinforces the continuation of the behaviors. Admitting there is a problem with alcohol and violence is the first step toward solving it.

Having the courage to seek help for you and/or your family may be the most important and beneficial decision you make in your life. Receiving professional assistance may help to get your family life on a healthy track and reduce the likelihood of preventable negative experiences.

If you or someone you know is affected by alcohol and violence, help is available. Call the USAG Ansbach Substance Abuse Program at 09802-83-1710 or DSN 467-1710, or the USAG Ansbach Family Advocacy Program at 09802-93-7777 or DSN 467-7777. For the Domestic Violence 24/7 Hotline, call 0160-661-5638.

Related Links:

Team Ansbach blog site

Al Anon Family Group

USAG Ansbach official home page

USAG Ansbach Army Substance Abuse Program

Franconian News: USAG Ansbach's official news page

USAG Ansbach official Twitter feed

USAG Ansbach official Facebook page

USAG Ansbach official Flickr page

Army OneSource

USAG Ansbach official YouTube channel