Domestic Violence and the Holiday Season

The holidays are a time of family, giving, joy, and celebration. It is also a time of year when domestic violence is more prominent. We all have family traditions and warm memories of the holiday season. But for some women, the holidays can also be a time of fear.

Around the country, many communities are preparing for the seasonal increase in domestic abuse and family violence that they see year after year. Some cities have even seen other types of violence decrease, while cases of domestic violence remain constant or are on the rise.

The holidays can be a tipping point for an abusive relationship. The season combines a lot of distinct factors that can cause violence to escalate. The stress of travel or added financial burdens can be a trigger. Disputes and strained relationships with family members may create anxiety around the holidays. Not to mention that alcohol is frequently involved with holiday parties and celebrations, so it is a tough season to say sober.

In the DC region in particular, there has been an increase in domestic violence recently, and as the holidays get nearer, incidents of abuse are expected to rise, and violence often becomes more severe.

At Calvary, we offer women a place to heal from trauma of violent relationships. For many women at our programs, this will be the first time in years they know they will be safe for the holidays.

The holidays are also an emotional time, and a time of year when some women are reluctant to leave their abusers even as violence at home intensifies. If you or a loved one needs help, speak up. Here are some resources to turn to: http://1.usa.gov/qh8ORJ