Anger & Addiction

For some substance abusers there’s a connection between their drug use and aggression or anger.  

Addiction experts have long recognized the link between certain substances and aggressive behavior. One recent study showed that a staggering 83 percent of homicide offenders were drinking at the time of the offense. That number was 60 percent for sexual offenders and 37 percent for assault offenders.

Drugs and Violence

Alcohol isn’t the only substance that can trigger aggression and anger in users. Cocaine and methamphetamines also cause biochemical changes in the brain that can make those prone to anger and aggression more likely to escalate their aggressive behavior while using.

Dual Diagnosis Treatment

Of course, not everyone with a chemical addiction is aggressive or angry, but this toxic mix of anger and addiction in some is dangerous. La Paloma knows that addiction doesn’t happen in a vacuum, that’s why we support a dual diagnosis approach to substance abuse treatment and the recovery process as a whole. Outside stressors, family, work relationships and untreated depression or emotional issues can all contribute. By looking at the addiction alongside any co-existing disorders allows those in treatment to deal with not just the physical problem of abuse but also the underlying issues that lead them to abuse in the first place.

Drug Addiction Treatment

If you or someone you know needs treatment for a drug problem that is exacerbated by an anger or aggression issue, call La Paloma at our toll-free number. Someone is there to take your call 24 hours a day.