Many Stay Home During Christmas - To Avoid Conflict

 

[ Chris Stone / Stone News Network / December 12, 2023 5:45 PM MST / 4:45 PM PST]

Years ago, I remember a family fight that was talked about for many, many holidays. Back in the 1980's, Christmas was simpler back then. We didn't have social media nor e-mail. We actually had to speak to people or send letters. Phone calls were expected courtesies when confirming holiday visits or stays. During that time, my two uncles decided to have a fist-fight on the front lawn. Within minutes, the police arrived and arrested them both for domestic violence. It was a surreal moment.

The onslaught of the holiday chaos can bring out the worst in people: Drinking excessively, expressing hatred for wrongs of the past, escalated tempers and fist fights would erupt.

You may think that this is rare, but it is not. Family violence during the holidays is a known risk factor. When different people share the same house, tempers will flare and hatred will climb with every alcoholic drink.

According to statistics, domestic abuse increases over the holidays, for a number of possible reasons:

• Stress from holiday shopping, finances, and planning can aggravate volatile personalities.
• Abusers are more likely to partake of alcohol or drugs when they don’t have to work.
• Simple opportunity: abuser are more likely to be home alone with their victims than at other times of the year.

It’s important to remember that violence is never the victim’s fault. If you are speaking to a friend or loved one you assume is a survivor of violence, never be accusatory or critical. Instead, emphasize your unconditional support and love, and offer resources if possible. A few good ones to keep in mind include:

• Local police phone numbers.
• Local women’s shelters.
• The National Domestic Violence Hotline.

Instead of staying at a relatives house or family member - why not choose a hotel? It gives you the freedom and security to know you can leave at any time. There's no fear like sleeping in an environment where you know people are murderous.

So stay safe this holiday season!