07/22/2026
Domestic violence, sexual assault, and substance use often intersect in ways that are complex, and frequently misunderstood.
For some survivors, substance use may become a way to cope with overwhelming trauma symptoms, including anxiety, depression, intrusive memories, chronic pain, disrupted sleep, or feeling constantly on alert. Substance use may offer temporary relief, but it can also create additional health and safety concerns and make it harder for survivors to access help.
Substance use can also be part of the abuse itself. An abusive partner may:
-Pressure or force a survivor to use substances
-Control, steal, or withhold prescribed medications
-Sabotage treatment or recovery efforts
-Use a survivor’s substance use to threaten, shame, or discredit them
-Prevent them from seeking medical care or support
-Threaten to report them to law enforcement, child welfare, an employer, or family members
-Intentionally keep them dependent or impaired as a way to maintain control
It's important to recognize that safety, trauma, and recovery are connected. A trauma-informed response meets survivors where they are, respects their choices, reduces shame, supports harm reduction and recovery, and coordinates care without creating additional barriers.
Healing is not one-size-fits-all, but compassionate, survivor-centered support can make recovery and safety possible.
Tennessee Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-356-6767
Tennessee Sexual Assault Hotline: 1-866-811-7473
For resources, education, training, and support, visit www.tncoalition.org.
