The legal outcomes of illegal drugs can be very hard on a victim, may hurt the victim's relationship with the children and put him or her at a disadvantage in other legal actions with an abuser. Carefully consider the potential cost. The use of any alcohol or other drug can reduce your ability to act quickly to protect yourself from your abuser. Furthermore, the use of alcohol or other drugs by the abuser may give him/her an excuse to use violence.

If drug or alcohol abuse has occurred in my relationship with my abuser, I can enhance my safety by some or all of the following:

A. If I am going to use, I can do so in a safe place and with people who understand the risk of violence and are committed to my safety.

B. I can also ______________.

C. If my partner is using, I can ______________.

D. I might also ______________.

E. To safeguard my children, I can ______________.

Go to Step 7

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