If you have been the victim of domestic violence in the past, you know that the holidays often make the situation worse. Abusers often use the holidays to inflict more pain on their victims. They tighten their control “grip.”
Emotions run close to the surface during the holiday season. In addition, often there is an increased amount of alcohol consumption.
How often have you found yourself crying on Christmas Day in spite of your desire to enjoy the season and the day?
If you think there is any possibility that you or your children might be abused this holiday season, please make a plan of action. Pack a bag with your ID, cash, phone numbers, a credit card, car keys and a few other necessary items. Put it in a location that you can get it in a minute if the situation becomes volatile — maybe at a trusted neighbor’s home.
Explain to your children that they should not enter the room where the violence might begin to take place. In advance prepare them by telling them that if you use a certain word or phrase that they need to exit your home and that you will follow. Tell them a safe place where they should go such as a trusted neighbor’s home.
Don’t make excuses for the abuser. Even if the holidays are hard for him to cope with, you do not deserve to be abused.
There are many resources that are out there especially during the holiday season. There are churches, shelters and your local police department can direct you.
Don’t hesitate to call 911 if you or your child are in eminent danger.
Photo by clarity25
