Domestic Violence Can Increase during the Holiday Season

This year, as you hang the twinkling lights and decorate your mantel with sprigs of holly, remember that not everyone has gotten the message that it’s a season of peace. Unfortunately, the holidays can be an even more dangerous time than normal for those at risk for domestic violence.
 
From the financial stress of gift buying to an overall increase in alcohol consumption, to a flurry of emotions and other stresses that accompany a plethora of family togetherness time, there are many reasons why the chance of intimate partner violence can increase during the holidays. 
 
What can you do? If you’re currently with an abusive partner, reach out to a trained domestic violence advocate—Call the Illinois helpline at 877-863-6338. You don’t need to figure out an escape plan—you can simply call to talk. Of course, if you are in immediate danger, call 911.
 
If you suspect someone in your life is the victim of an abusive partner, notice red flags, such as bruises, possessiveness, rigid gender roles, and deliberately humiliating one’s partner in front of others. To support a victim, it is advised that you be non-judgmental but supportive. Don’t badmouth the abuser. Sometimes when word gets back to the abuser that a friend or family member is asking questions about the abuse, they could be putting themselves in danger. You can also call the Illinois helpline at 877-863-6338 to get advice as to how to properly help the abused individual.
Source: www.domesticshelters.org 
 
Brought to you by St. Hubert Domestic Violence Outreach Ministry