Myth #8: Abusers are addicted to drugs and alcohol and are only abusive when they’re using.

Truth: Drugs and alcohol are no more present in domestic violence situations than they are anywhere else. They may make the violence worse but they are not the cause of the violence. Abusing is a choice, and the abuser is making the choice to abuse. In fact, some abusers use alcohol and drugs as an excuse to abuse their partners.