Amid the festive facade, it’s vital to recognize the hidden struggles within closed doors—physical and mental abuse affecting women, children, men, and seniors. In times of heightened stress, such as job loss or financial strain, abuse can escalate, exacerbated by factors like alcohol, drugs, and gambling during football season.
Five Lines for Support:
- You are not alone. If you or someone you know is facing abuse, reach out to a trusted friend or family member.
- Seek help from local domestic violence hotlines or shelters, providing a safe haven for those escaping abuse.
- National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)
- Be a lifeline for someone in need; share these resources, because silence can perpetuate the cycle of abuse.
- Remember, your safety matters. If in immediate danger, call emergency services.
During this season of togetherness, let’s extend our care beyond celebrations, ensuring that everyone has the support they need to break free from the shadows of abuse.
Abuse Hotlines
Days and weeks of close confinement can increase instances of elder abuse, domestic violence, and child abuse. There are people who can help.
Elder Abuse is handled by each state’s Adult Protective Services division. TheNational Adult Protective Services Association provides links to local numbersfor each state.
Domestic Abuse support can be found from the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233. They provide free, confidential support 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to anyone experiencing domestic violence, seeking resources or information, or questioning unhealthy aspects of their relationship.
Child Abuse support can be found at TheChildhelp National Child Abuse Hotlineat 1-800-4-A-CHILD or 1-800-422-4453. They can provide crisis intervention, information, and referrals to emergency, social support, and support resources. Their professional crisis counselors are able to provide assistance through interpreters in over 170 languages.
We all need a little support sometimes. There are people who can help.
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My Story
Breaking Free: Escaping Holiday Abuse – A Personal Journey and Practical Tips
The holidays are supposed to be a time of joy, but for many, they can become a dark and distressing period. I know this all too well from my own experience. In my first marriage, entering any holiday season meant a tenfold increase in abuse. The reasons behind this escalation remain unclear – perhaps it was the added stress of holiday expenses, although no excuse can justify such behavior.
After enduring over a decade of abuse, I broke free from that toxic marriage. Inspired by my own journey, I decided to help those facing domestic violence. What I discovered was a disturbing pattern: holiday seasons, periods of unemployment, and even football seasons became triggers for increased abuse among victims.
Abuse comes in various forms – spousal abuse, elder abuse, child abuse, financial abuse, emotional abuse, and psychological torment. It’s important to recognize that accepting such treatment is never the solution, as the situation only tends to worsen over time. The belief that your abuser will change is often a futile hope.
For those trapped in abusive situations, planning an escape is crucial. Starting with discreetly saving money, creating a comprehensive action plan becomes a lifeline. Preparation is key for the moment when escape becomes a necessity.
Keep copies of your birth certificate and all your children as well as copies of social security cards.
Keep a duffel bag or something to hide a couple changes of clothes in case you need to flee quick.
If you can stay at a family member’s do it. If not call your local DV shelter and NEVER reveal the location of the shelter to anyone’ Doing so puts not just you but future residents at risk.
If you get a restraining order please do not dismiss it. It’s for your protection.
If you are broke seek legal aid or welfare
If you work keep your emergency duffel there if you can.
To anyone facing holiday abuse, know that you’re not alone. By sharing my story and offering practical tips, my hope is that others can find the strength and resources to break free from the cycle of abuse. Remember, the path to liberation begins with acknowledging the need to escape and taking steps to be prepared for that crucial moment.
Joyful-Echoes 