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The Christmas Challenge

23rd December 2022. Reading Time: 3 minutes Domestic Violence, Anger. 455 page views.

The holidays are a time of celebration, but for some families in Australia, the festive season brings with it a heightened risk of family violence. As Christmas approaches, it is important to remember how vital healthy relationships are. Not only do these connections remind us of our self-worth, but they also provide an opportunity to share both the highs and lows that life can bring. The festive season can be a heart-warming and special time of year - but it can also be challenging if we find ourselves feeling lonely or disconnected from others.

The holidays are a time of celebration, but for some families in Australia, the festive season brings with it a heightened risk of family violence. As Christmas approaches, it is essential that people are aware of the latest statistics when it comes to protecting victims of family violence.


Recent studies have revealed that reported instances of family violence increase by 25% during the holiday period. In addition, police attendances due to domestic incidents surge by 30%, placing additional strain on already overstretched resources. Furthermore, the research has shown that there is an increased likelihood for children living in homes where abuse takes place to be further exposed and harmed during this time.  74% of cases reported in December were severe enough to require intervention from police or other support services. This indicates a troubling trend where victims are unable to escape their situation due to financial pressures and increased social obligations associated with the holiday season.


These alarming figures demonstrate just how important it is that people remain vigilant over this period and take steps to protect those living with family violence during Christmas.
 

There are a range of factors that contribute to this rise in family violence. For example, stretched family budgets within households can lead to increased financial stress and tension between family members. Furthermore, alcohol consumption is often higher during the holiday season which has been linked to an increase in incidents of domestic violence. Finally, families spending more time together due to holidays may result in greater levels of conflict if issues already exist within a relationship or household.

It is therefore essential that people are aware of these statistics when it comes to protecting victims of family violence during this period - as well as being equipped with knowledge on how best to seek help if needed.

As Christmas approaches, it is important to remember how vital healthy relationships are. Not only do these connections remind us of our self-worth, but they also provide an opportunity to share both the highs and lows that life can bring.
The festive season can be a heart-warming and special time of year - but it can also be challenging if we find ourselves feeling lonely or disconnected from others. Therefore, having positive relationships in our lives are so important: they help us through difficult times, celebrate happy moments, and remind us that we are worthy of love.

Healthy relationships allow us to create meaningful memories with those we care about during the holidays – whether in person or over video calls this year – creating lasting impressions that will stay with us for years to come.

It is important to remember that respect and safety in relationships should always be prioritized. In family, friendships, and romantic connections, you have the right to be respected and safe - this includes relationships with boyfriends, girlfriends, partners, husbands, or wives, as well as ex-boyfriends or ex-girlfriends.


Respectful relationships are based on mutual trust and understanding of boundaries. A healthy relationship will not place unrealistic expectations on either partner; instead, each person has full autonomy over their decisions without being judged by the other person. If a partner is pressuring, you into making decisions which make you feel uncomfortable then that isn't respectful behaviour from them. Additionally, all forms of abuse should never be tolerated in any relationship - if someone abuses you then they are not respecting your rights as a human being.

If you or someone you know is experiencing family violence, help is available. If you believe someone is in immediate danger call Triple Zero (000) and ask for the police. Otherwise, contact 1800 RESPECT on 1800 737 to seek confidential advice and support. 

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