During Holiday Season, Domestic Violence Calls Rise

 Holiday Season Brings Increased Risk of Domestic Violence

The holiday season brings joy for many, but for some families, it can be a time of increased stress and danger. Local domestic violence shelters report a significant rise in calls for help during November and December. “The holidays create a perfect storm of factors that can intensify domestic violence,” says Andrea Quill, CEO of the Domestic Violence Association of Central Kansas (DVACK). “Financial pressures, family obligations, and increased alcohol consumption can all contribute to escalating tensions at home.”

Rising Crisis During Holiday Season

Quill notes that calls to their crisis hotline typically increase by 30% during the holiday season. Extended family gatherings, while meant to be celebratory, can sometimes trap victims with their abusers for longer periods. “Many people feel pressure to maintain a picture-perfect holiday image,” Quill explains. “This can make victims less likely to reach out for help, thinking they shouldn’t ‘ruin’ the holidays for their children or extended family.”

Warning Signs of Holiday Domestic Violence

* A partner controlling holiday spending or access to money

* Increased isolation from friends and family

* Using children or family gatherings as manipulation tactics

* Heightened tension around holiday events

* Threats to “ruin” the holidays

Local law enforcement confirms this trend, reporting that domestic disturbance calls increase significantly between Thanksgiving and New Year’s Day. However, experts believe many incidents still go unreported.

 Impact on Children

The presence of children during school breaks can complicate matters further. “Children are home more during the holidays, which means they may witness more abuse,” Quill says. “It also makes it harder for victims to seek help when they don’t have the privacy that comes with regular school hours.”

Available Support Services

DVACK and other local organizations are working to provide expanded services during the holiday season. These include:

* 24/7 crisis hotline support

* Emergency shelter space

* Transportation assistance

* Holiday-specific safety planning

* Support groups for adults and children

“We want people to know that help is available, even during the holidays,” Quill emphasizes. “No one deserves to live in fear, especially during what should be a season of peace.”

Safety Planning

Safety experts recommend having a plan in place before holiday gatherings. This can include keeping important documents readily accessible, maintaining a separate phone, and identifying safe exits in advance.

For those seeking help, DVACK’s confidential crisis hotline operates around the clock. The organization can assist with emergency shelter, legal advocacy, and counseling services. Support is free and available regardless of gender, age, or economic status. “The holidays don’t have to be a time of fear,” Quill concludes. “There are people ready to help, and taking that first step to reach out could mean the difference between a holiday season of fear and one of hope.”

If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, help is available 24/7

* National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)

* Local Domestic Violence Shelter, DVACK: (785) 827-5862