By Arezoo Shahbazi Roa, MSW, Prevention & Community Education Director
The holiday season is often seen as a time of joy, connection, and celebration. For many, it’s a time to gather with loved ones, exchange gifts, and make cherished memories. But for survivors of relationship violence, this season can bring a unique set of challenges. It’s important to acknowledge the complexities that come with navigating the holidays while healing from abuse and trauma.
At Human Options, we recognize that safety, support, and self-care are key during this time. Whether you are in the process of healing, starting over, or working through the difficult emotions that arise from an abusive past, your well-being matters. This holiday season, we want to offer a few safety tips to help you stay grounded, empowered, and safe.
Prioritize Your Emotional and Physical Safety The holidays may bring about unwanted contact with an abuser, especially if they have access to you or your loved ones. It’s important to set boundaries that prioritize your safety and emotional well-being. If you’re concerned about potential contact, be proactive:
- Plan: Identify a safe space in your home or community where you can retreat if you feel threatened.
- Limit communication: Consider blocking or screening calls, messages, or social media interactions from anyone who could trigger stress or danger.
- Talk to someone you trust: If you need support, reach out to friends, family, or a therapist who can offer guidance.
Create a Safety Plan Life can be unpredictable, and holidays can sometimes bring unexpected situations. A safety plan can offer a sense of control and peace of mind:
- Have an exit strategy: Know where you can go in case you need to leave a situation quickly, such as a neighbor’s house or a public space.
- Emergency contacts: Make sure you have a list of people you can call if you need help and inform them about your situation so they can act if necessary.
- Keep essentials close: Whether you’re at home or away, keep your phone charged, your ID, keys, and any important documents with you at all times.
Set Boundaries with Family and Friends The holiday season is often filled with family gatherings and social events. While these occasions can be uplifting, they may also involve complicated dynamics with family members who may not understand your experience. It’s okay to set limits on how much you’re willing to participate in or to say “no” to events that don’t feel right.
- Let safe individuals know your limits: Share your safety plan or any concerns with family or friends who can provide support if you need it.
- Don’t feel obligated to attend gatherings: If you’re not ready to be around certain people, it’s okay to skip events. Your well-being comes first.
Self-Care and Healing Self-care is essential, especially for survivors of relationship violence. The holidays can be overwhelming with all the demands and expectations, so taking time for yourself can help replenish your strength.
- Engage in activities that bring you peace: Whether it’s reading, meditating, going for a walk, or simply resting, allow yourself time to relax and recharge.
- Celebrate small victories: Healing is a journey, and every step you take toward recovery is worth celebrating. Honor the progress you’ve made, even if it’s not always visible to others.
- Reconnect with Your Strength: The holidays may remind you of difficult times, but they also offer an opportunity to reconnect with your inner strength. Remember that you’ve survived, and you are not defined by your past. Use this time to reflect on how far you’ve come in your healing journey. Each day is a new opportunity for growth, peace, and reclaiming your life.
This holiday season, let it be a reminder of your incredible strength. The trauma you’ve experienced does not define you, but rather, your courage, your perseverance, and your ability to move forward, even in difficult times. The holidays may feel hard right now, but they also hold the possibility of healing, growth, and renewal. As you move through this season, know that you are worthy of safety, love, and peace, and you have the strength to embrace that reality.
As we move through the holidays, remember that you have the power to create a peaceful, supportive environment for yourself, one that respects your boundaries and nurtures your emotional well-being. You deserve a holiday season filled with safety, hope, and the knowledge that you are always supported.
At Human Options, we are dedicated 24/7 to supporting survivors of relationship violence throughout the year, especially during challenging times like holidays. Know that you are not alone. You are worthy of love, safety, and peace. You have the strength to navigate this season and continue your path toward healing. For more information call our hotline at 877-854-3594 or visit humanoptions.org.
