They've become physically aggressive with me

Situation Recognition

Physical aggression represents the most serious escalation of addiction behavior. Whether it's pushing, hitting, throwing objects, or intimidating physical posturing, any physical aggression requires immediate response to protect both your safety and their recovery potential. This behavior often indicates addiction has progressed to dangerous levels.

Michael Wilson's Insight

"Physical aggression is addiction's last desperate attempt to maintain control when all other manipulation has failed. Your safety must be the absolute priority—you cannot help someone who is physically harming you." Tolerating physical aggression actually enables the addiction to escalate further because it teaches that violence works to get what they want.

Comprehensive Guidance

Immediate safety response to physical aggression:

• Remove yourself from the situation immediately—do not try to de-escalate during physical episodes
• Call 911 if you feel in immediate danger or have been physically harmed
• Document injuries with photographs and medical attention if needed
• Do not minimize or excuse physical aggression as "just the addiction talking"
• Consider temporary removal from home after any physical incident
• File police reports to establish documentation of escalating behavior

Understanding addiction-related violence:

• Physical aggression often occurs when other manipulation tactics have failed
• Substance use can increase impulsivity and lower inhibitions against violence
• Withdrawal symptoms can include irritability and aggression
• Desperation for money or substances can trigger violent behavior
• Mental health issues combined with addiction increase aggression risk
• Previous head injuries or trauma may contribute to aggressive episodes

Establishing zero-tolerance policies:

• Physical aggression results in immediate removal from home—no exceptions
• No returning home until completion of anger management or treatment program
• Police involvement will occur with any future physical incidents
• Weapons must be removed from all accessible areas immediately
• Other family members will be protected through whatever means necessary
• Professional intervention is required before considering any reconciliation

Legal and protective measures:

• File restraining orders if physical aggression continues
• Document all incidents with photos, medical records, and police reports
• Consider pressing charges to create legal consequences for violent behavior
• Consult with domestic violence resources even when the aggressor is your child
• Explore legal options for involuntary mental health or addiction treatment
• Work with attorneys familiar with family violence and addiction issues

Implementation Steps

1. Ensure immediate safety by removing yourself and other family members from danger—this is not negotiable

1. Call 911 if you feel threatened and document the incident with police reports, photos, and medical attention

1. Implement immediate consequences including removal from home and no return until professional intervention occurs

1. Remove all weapons and dangerous objects from accessible areas throughout your home

1. Seek professional help immediately for both safety planning and addiction intervention services

What to Expect

Physical aggression typically escalates if not addressed with immediate and serious consequences. Expect them to minimize the incident, blame their behavior on substances or stress, and promise it won't happen again. Do not accept these explanations—physical aggression requires professional intervention regardless of the cause. Many parents feel guilty about involving police or legal systems, but this protection often provides the wake-up call addiction needs. Recovery rarely occurs when families tolerate physical violence because it reinforces that addiction can control the family through fear. Professional intervention often leads to better outcomes than family-only responses because addiction-related violence requires specialized expertise. Expect relief once safety measures are in place, even though implementing them feels difficult initially.

Professional Resources

East Point Behavioral Health: (855) 887-6237 - Addiction intervention services and family safety planning

Emergency Services: 911 for immediate physical threats, violence, or when you feel unsafe

National Domestic Violence Hotline: (800) 799-7233 - 24/7 support for family violence situations, including adult children

Local Police Non-Emergency: For incident reporting, restraining order information, and safety consultations

Domestic Violence Shelters: Provide safety planning and support even when the aggressor is an adult child

Crisis Mental Health Services: For emergency psychiatric evaluation and possible involuntary commitment if needed

Family Law Attorneys: Specializing in restraining orders, eviction procedures, and family protection options