Domestic Violence And The Holidays

People, please watch for the red flags. If there is stress in your life or in the life of your family, the Holidays can trigger domestic violence.

by Jeff McShan / KHOU.com

Posted on December 29, 2009 at 6:37 AM

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HOUSTON—The holidays usually bring about lots of love, togetherness and holiday cheer. Good food and great spirits are always on the rise, but there is something else that is up and it has nothing to do with good will. In fact, it is a deadly reminder of just how dark and deadly the holidays can be. It is domestic violence.

Experts say the holidays can bring out the dark sides in some already sensitive situations.

 Over the last few days here in Houston, dozens of people have been arrested for assaulting and/or threatening their significant other.

 911 operators report that domestic abuse calls tend to rise during this time of year. They usually come from homes where problems already exist.

 “It just makes it worse, you know. How am I going to buy the gifts?  Are we going to go to my family’s house or your family’s house? What are you going to do that creates the arguments,” said Frida Villalobos, Houston Area Women's Center.

 And in this area since Christmas day there have been many domestic violence-related murders and assaults.....

....But in every scenario, the victim of domestic violence must decide they want help. Many don’t even realize they’re in a dangerous situation until it’s too late.

“If this person is constantly threatening you, telling you, ‘where are you, what time are you coming home?’ Those are just little red flags that you need to look for,” said Villalobos.

Especially during this time of year, when stress levels are often already high. 

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