The consequences of drug-related violence are significant, placing
huge burdens upon the health and well-being of victims, their families and friends,
witnesses, and even perpetrators; whilst exacerbating fear within communities and
placing pressure on health and other public services. Studies have found associations
between the severity of drug use by perpetrators of violence and the severity of
violence perpetrated (7). Further, non drug using individuals living with illicit drug
users are at increased risk of death as an outcome of violence within the home (119).
Aside from physical injuries, psychiatric effects are also evident with studies finding
an association between violence exposure, subsequent PTSD and severity of
substance use (66). The cyclical nature of drugs and violence means children of drug
using parents are at increased risk of experiencing maltreatment and neglect (22,67-
69). Furthermore, witnessing or experiencing violence during childhood can heighten
the risk of drug use in later life (19,63,87).