Holidays and Domestic Violence

Holidays and Domestic Violence

Holidays are a time for celebration with friends and relatives. For domestic violence victims, it can be exhausting and dangerous.

Your abuser may appear as a perfect person in people’s eyes. Pay attention to what they are doing. Are they drinking too much? Are they arguing with people?

When I realized my abuser was getting drunk, I asked him to leave the celebration. Sometimes he would leave before he was out of control. Other times, he would ignore me.

He would always remind me how I embarrassed him. No one knew about the abuse. I dreaded all invitations because of the years of abusive behavior.

When we spent birthdays and holidays at home, I feared what the abuser would do to ruin another celebration.

Now that I am away from my abuser, I can enjoy holidays, even if I am alone.

If you are living with your abuser, I pray for your protection. May you find peace and healing this holiday season, if you have escaped the abuse.

updated 11/26/22