Domestic Violence & Substance Abuse – The Hidden Link. An emotional heartfelt session. Healing takes courage, and we all have courage, even if we have to dig a little to find it. Substance abuse and domestic violence (DV) often occur together not because one directly causes the other, but because they both stem from and fuel cycles of control, trauma, and coping. Understanding this connection empowers women to recognize risks, protect themselves, and seek healing.