At the Intersection of Addiction and Violence: The complex connection between substance use and abuse

Courtney Messina, Director of Clinical Services for Greenhouse Inpatient & Outpatient Treatment Centers in Grand Prairie and Arlington, Texas, and a Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor and Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor, joins us to explore the invisible threads that bind the scourge of addiction to the turmoil of domestic violence. In this episode, we peel back the layers of these intertwined crises through the powerful narrative of "Amy," whose experience with substance dependency and an abusive relationship illuminates the harsh realities faced by victims of domestic violence. We navigate the often misunderstood concept of addiction as a complex brain disorder, dismantling the myth that it is a choice, and delve into how this malady exacerbates the already volatile nature of abusive relationships.

Ms. Messina, who has worked in the field of behavioral health since 2014, articulates the nuanced approach required to address the consequences of these co-occurring disorders. Our dialogue traverses from the statistical to the personal, examining the multifaceted forms of abuse and the vicious cycle it creates, often leading victims to seek solace in substances. This episode offers an insightful journey into the heart of these social issues and the transformative power of empathy and targeted support.