Unique Issues for Abstinent Domestic Violence Survivors
Although all clients moving toward sobriety encounter new challenges, domestic violence survivors will face unique challenges. Relapses may be more common if recognition of the issue is not addressed by counselors.

• Social Functioning: Many batterers intentionally isolate their partners as part of the cycle of domestic violence. As a result, your client may need support in identifying non-drug related activities as well as finding appropriate social activities, rebuilding friendships, and repairing family relationships.
   
• Parenting: Research clearly indicates the impact of parental substance abuse upon parenting abilities. New research also confirms how devastating witnessing domestic violence can be upon children. Combined issues can produce a great need for new parenting skills. Children exposed to domestic violence experience a myriad of symptoms as do children who have a substance abusing parent. Attention must be given to their anxiety, fear, and anger, as well as to other needs which may become overwhelming stressors to a mother attempting to remain sober.
   
• Financial and Legal Concerns: Batterers frequently control victims financially or through legal threats. Concomitantly, substance abusers frequently have financial or legal problems as a result of their addictions. Staff must identify problems and refer clients to appropriate resources to address their concerns.
   
• Relapse Prevention: As a staff member, be aware of the additional pressures faced by domestic violence victims attempting to stay clean and sober:
     • harassment and threats from their abusers may continue;
     • custody and divorce proceeding may be in progress;
     • pressure to reunite with the batterer and “start over” may intense.