Exploring the nexus between alcohol consumption, intimate partner violence, and spousal mental health: A narrative review

Consuming alcohol, intimate partner violence (IPV), and spousal mental health are interrelated, but these relationships are often explored separately. This review synthesized evidence linking alcohol-use patterns with IPV and spousal psychological and psychosocial outcomes. PubMed, Google Scholar, and One Nation One Subscription (ONOS) were searched. Peer-reviewed quantitative, qualitative, and mixed-method studies examining alcohol use in relation to IPV and/or spousal mental health were included. Data were independently extracted by two reviewers and narratively synthesized. Twenty-seven studies were included. Problematic alcohol use, heavy drinking, and intoxication were generally associated with greater IPV risk, although associations varied according to drinking patterns and relationship context. Problematic alcohol use by both partners was associated with higher odds of physical or sexual IPV. Experimental and longitudinal evidence suggested that intoxication may increase partner aggression, particularly in the presence of impulsivity, anger rumination, or relationship conflict. Spouses of men with alcohol dependence experienced greater psychological distress, depression, anxiety, perceived stress, and caregiver burden. Qualitative studies additionally identified fear, financial strain, relationship instability, psychological violence, and barriers to help-seeking. Overall, the findings highlighted the need for integrated, trauma-informed interventions addressing alcohol misuse, IPV and spousal mental health. Routine screening for alcohol use, IPV and partner mental health. Coordinated community-based strategies and campaigns about the association between substance abuse and IPV should be implemented. Despite limitations related to narrative design and the heterogeneity of included studies, the review highlights the need for longitudinal, intervention-focused research.