The holiday season can be a joyful time, but it can also increase risks for people living with intimate partner violence, according to Lanark County Interval House.
That message was shared during a recent episode of Silence Broken: The IPV Talks, hosted by Bob Perreault with Lanark County Interval House executive director Erin Lee.
Lee said violence does not pause during the holidays and can show up in quieter, more controlling ways during family gatherings and celebrations.
She encouraged people to watch for warning signs such as sudden isolation, increased tension, subtle controlling behaviours, or changes in how someone acts around their partner. Stress, alcohol use and financial pressures can also raise the risk of conflict.
Lee said bystanders can help by checking in privately, creating safe distractions and respecting boundaries. Simple actions, like offering help in another room or starting a side conversation, can make a difference without escalating danger.
For those experiencing violence, Lee advised planning ahead, including identifying trusted supports or having an emergency plan in place.
Listeners can hear the full conversation and more safety advice on the Silence Broken: The IPV Talks podcast below.