The holiday season is a time when families in North Texas and across the country come together to celebrate, create memories, and enjoy cherished traditions.
However, for those trapped in the cycle of domestic violence, the holidays can be a period of heightened fear, isolation, and danger.
Domestic abuse at Christmas and throughout the holiday season is a heartbreaking reality for many individuals, but it is crucial to understand that you are not alone—there is help available.
At Ilarraza Law, we have seen firsthand the devastating impact of domestic violence on families throughout the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex. As experienced family law attorneys, we are dedicated to providing compassionate support and aggressive legal representation to survivors of abuse.
We understand the unique challenges and risks that the holidays can pose, and we are here to help you navigate this difficult time, understand your legal options, and create a domestic violence safety plan.
5 Reasons Why Domestic Violence Escalates During the Holidays
While domestic violence affects individuals and families year-round, there are several factors that can contribute to an increase in abuse during the holiday season.
1. Financial Stress
The pressure to buy gifts, host gatherings, and meet the expectations of the “perfect” holiday can put a significant strain on a family’s finances. This added stress can exacerbate existing tensions and lead to an escalation in abusive behavior.
2. Increased Alcohol Consumption
Holiday celebrations often involve the consumption of alcohol, which can lower inhibitions and increase the likelihood of violent outbursts. Abusers who already struggle with substance abuse may be more prone to aggressive behavior during this time.
3. Heightened Emotions
The holidays can be an emotionally charged time, especially if reality fails to live up to idealized expectations. Feelings of disappointment, anger, or resentment can boil over, leading to increased conflict and abuse.
4. Extended Time Together
With time off from work and school, families may spend more uninterrupted time together during the holidays. For those in abusive relationships, this can mean more opportunities for violence to occur, with fewer chances to seek help or escape.
5. Isolation from Support Systems
Abusers often use isolation as a tactic to control their victims—the holidays can make this problem much worse. Victims may feel pressure to maintain a facade of a happy, healthy relationship, or they may hesitate to reach out for help for fear of disrupting family gatherings or burdening others.
It is important to remember that no matter the time of year, abuse is never the victim’s fault. You deserve to be safe, respected, and supported.
Creating a Holiday Safety Plan
If you are in an abusive relationship, developing a personalized safety plan is an essential step in protecting yourself and your loved ones.
A safety plan is a practical, adaptable strategy that outlines ways to stay safe while in the relationship, preparing to leave, and after leaving. Here are a few items to consider including.
Identify Safe Places
Know where you can go if violence escalates, such as a friend or family member’s home, a domestic violence shelter, or a public place like a library or police station.
Establish a Support Network
Reach out to trusted friends, family members, or a domestic violence advocate who can provide emotional support and practical assistance. Consider creating a code word or signal to let them know when you need help.
Secure Important Documents
Gather and make copies of essential documents, including IDs, birth certificates, social security cards, and financial records. Keep these documents in a safe place, like with a trusted friend or in a bank safe deposit box.
Prepare an Emergency Bag (Go Bag)
Pack a bag with essential items, including clothing, medications, cash, and important phone numbers, and keep it in a safe, easily accessible location.
Utilize Technology Safely
Program emergency contacts into your phone, and use a safe computer or device to research resources and document abuse. This might be a computer or smartphone at a public library, a school, or a trusted friend’s house.
Be aware that abusers may monitor your digital activities with so-called “stalkerware” or “spouseware” that can track everything from your movements and the websites you visit to quite literally every letter you type and everything you view.
Take precautions to protect your privacy, or consider abandoning devices that the abuser has access to, including children’s devices. You can learn more about this technology, colloquially known as “spyware,” here.
Involve Children
If you have children, teach them when and how to call 911, and identify a safe place for them to go if violence occurs. Consider notifying their school or daycare about the situation and any custody arrangements.
Seeking Professional Guidance
Contact a domestic violence advocate or attorney who can help you assess your options, understand your legal rights, and create a comprehensive safety plan.
Remember, leaving an abusive relationship can be the most dangerous time. It is critical to prioritize your safety and seek support from trained professionals who can help you navigate this challenging process.
Domestic Violence Resources in North Texas
In the Dallas-Fort Worth area, numerous organizations are dedicated to supporting survivors of domestic violence, and many offer special programs and services during the holidays.
The Family Place (Dallas)
As the largest domestic violence service provider in Texas, The Family Place offers a wide range of resources, including emergency shelter, counseling, and legal advocacy for any survivor, regardless of gender.
During the holidays, they organize gift drives and special events for clients. Their 24/7 crisis hotline is available at 214-941-1991.
SafeHaven of Tarrant County (Fort Worth)
SafeHaven provides comprehensive services to domestic violence survivors, including emergency shelter, counseling, and legal assistance. They coordinate holiday gift drives and events for clients and their families. Their 24/7 hotline can be reached at 1-877-701-7233.
Denton County Friends of the Family
Denton County Friends of the Family offers emergency shelter, transitional housing, counseling, and legal advocacy. They organize holiday gift drives and events to support clients and their children. Their 24-hour crisis line is available at 940-382-7273.
Brighter Tomorrows (Irving)
Brighter Tomorrows provides emergency shelter, counseling, and transitional housing for survivors in the Irving, Grand Prairie, and Dallas areas. They offer holiday meals and gifts for client families, and their 24-hour hotline can be reached at 214-941-1991.
Texas Advocacy Project
The Texas Advocacy Project offers free legal services, advocacy, and counseling to victims of domestic violence. Their toll-free legal line is available at 800-374-4673.
Learn More About Your Legal Options for Dealing with an Abuser
At Ilarraza Law, our team of experienced family law attorneys is dedicated to providing compassionate, knowledgeable legal representation to survivors of domestic violence.
Our goal is to help you understand your rights, explore your options, and achieve the best possible outcome for you and your family. There are several legal options for dealing with an abuser, including emergency and permanent protective orders, that we can help with.
We recognize that taking legal action can be a daunting prospect, especially during the emotional and stressful holiday season.
That is why we work hard to create a safe, supportive environment where you can share your story, ask questions, and receive the guidance you need to move forward.
Contact us today to set up your initial consultation or call us directly at (214) 646-3253.
