Thursday, December 15, 2016


DOMESTIC VIOLENCE HOLIDAY SAFETY TIPS

“Sometimes Christmas doesn’t make us feel the way that we think it should. A song says, “It’s the most wonderful time of the year,” but often we feel sad, isolated or just plain stressed out.” -Excerpted from the booklet, “Finding Peace at Christmas”
‘Tis the season to be jolly,” according to the lyrics of a popular holiday tune. 
But, for countless Americans across the country, Xmas time is clouded by depression, isolation, sadness, and even pain.  
Particularly, for victims of domestic violence. Everyday situations and simple things can escalate or spiral out of control.
Unfortunately, the stress of the holiday season, unmet expectations and increased alcohol consumption can serve as triggers for further abuse.
Don’t become another statistic. 
Read and heed the following tips to stay safe and sane during the holiday season.

1. LIMIT YOUR ALCOHOL CONSUMPTION AND YOUR EXPOSURE TO PEOPLE WHO TYPICALLY CAN’T HANDLE THEIR LIQUOR WELL.
 This may seem simple, but it’s too often overlooked. Alcohol is known to lower inhibitions and compromise people’s judgment. “Better safe than sorry.”
2. HAVE YOUR PHONE WITH YOU AT ALL TIMES (CHARGED) OF COURSE.
3. TAKE ADVANTAGE OF SAFTEY APPS.
According to the site Cleveland.com, “You have a smart phone, consider downloading a safety app, like Aspire, for women, many of which have been designed to automatically alert your support network if you are in danger.”
4. STRIVE NOT TO ENGAGE IN CONFRONTATIONS OR HEATED ARGUMENTS.
Depending upon the situation, silence can be an effective strategy for peace and safety. 
5. DON’T ISOLATE YOURSELF FROM FAMILY AND FRIENDS.
Not only can they help to keep you in “good spirits,” they can become important allies for protection, support, and well-being.
6. PRAY.
For believers and those in the faith community, prayer offers solace, comfort, and an indestructible shield during times of crisis.
ADDITIONALLY, HERE ARE SOME TIMELY TIPS OFFERED BY
CLEVELAND.COM THAT ARE WORTH CONSIDERING AND IMPLEMENTING:
http://www.cleveland.com/court-justice/index.ssf/2014/12/8_tips_for_domestic_abuse_vict.html

ON A FINAL NOTE…
In this season of “giving,” we at IMGF hope you’ll remember us in your charitable donations throughout the holiday season and in 2017.
Your generosity, (through tax deductible contributions) helps to provide needed resources and programs to those in crisis situations, and saves lives.
We couldn’t do this without you.
Thank you for your support and prayers throughout the year.
From our door to yours, we wish you peace, blessings, and the joy of the season!
We hope you’ll rejoin us in 2017 for new resources, materials and events regarding domestic violence.

“BECAUSE THE ROAD TO SAFETY SHOULD NEVER BE A DEAD END.”

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