The Holidays and Domestic Violence

The holiday season can be one of the hardest times of year for survivors of domestic violence. Survivors often experience physical and mental health issues, including chronic pain, anxiety, depression, and many other stresses.

It’s a crucial time for us to shine a light on all of our efforts to support survivors of domestic and gender-based violence through an array of domestic and gender-based violence services.

To talk about this season and highlight available support services, we spoke with Dr. Obianuju Berry, Medical Director of Maternal, Infant and Domestic Violence Mental Health Programs at NYC Health + Hospitals Office of Behavioral Health.

Dr. Obianuju Berry
Medical Director of Maternal, Infant and Domestic Violence Mental Health Programs/NYC Health + Hospitals Office of Behavioral Health

Q: Thanks Dr. Berry.  How do holidays impact domestic violence?

A: Although the holidays are often portrayed as a time of joy and togetherness, they can also bring increased stress for domestic violence survivors and their families. Financial pressures, heightened family expectations, and the emotional weight of the season can all intensify existing tensions. For many survivors, these factors can contribute to conflict, emotional distress, or changes in family dynamics that make this time of year especially difficult.

The holiday season is also associated with increased alcohol use, which can compound stress and create unsafe environments. In addition, the emphasis on family unity and celebration can amplify feelings of isolation for survivors who are separated from loved ones or support networks. Mental health challenges, such as anxiety, depression, or trauma symptoms, may further deepen these emotions.

Q: What hospital-based programs are available for survivors?

A: NYC Health + Hospitals provides a range of services for survivors across our healthcare system. Domestic violence coordinators assist survivors with screenings, referrals, safety planning, and follow-up care. Many survivors access services through the emergency department, where they receive immediate care, social work assessments, and help with police reports and safety planning. Specialized teams, including forensic examiners and rape crisis counselors, are available for survivors of sexual assault.

Another program, is the EMPOWER Center, which provides free, trauma-informed care to individuals involved in the commercial sex trade or sex trafficking. This program is a partnership between NYC Health + Hospitals and Sanctuary for Families. The Kings CARES Practice is another service at NYC Health + Hospitals that offers comprehensive, patient-centered urgent medical care for survivors, working closely with Family Justice Centers (FJCs) and District Attorneys’ Offices across NYC.

Q: What are some community-based services for survivors?

A: The NYC Family Justice Centers (FJCs), operated by the Mayor’s Office to End Domestic and Gender-Based Violence, connect survivors to legal, social, and mental health services. Additional services include safety planning, mental health counseling, housing assistance, and workforce development resources. The FJCs are open Monday through Friday and are free, confidential, and available to individuals regardless of age, immigration status, or gender identity. NYC Health + Hospitals provides co-located mental health services via the FJC Mental Health Program (FJCMHP) by a team of psychiatrists, psychologists, and social workers at the each of the 5 FJCs in the city.

Q: How has NYC Health + Hospitals increased access to mental health services for survivors of domestic and gender-based violence?

A: In addition to the NYC FJCMHP, we have expanded our Domestic Violence Shelter Mental Health Initiative to provide on-site mental health services in 41 domestic violence shelters. This initiative offers survivors and their children faster access to mental health professionals, reducing wait times from months to just a week.

Since May 2023, over 5,600 behavioral health appointments have been provided to more than 700 patients.

Q: What are key signs or symptoms of domestic violence that individuals should be aware of?

A: Recognizing the signs of abuse is crucial for getting help. Some key signs include:

• Coercion and threats: Threatening harm, forcing legal actions, or using children to manipulate.
• Intimidation: Making a partner feel scared or breaking things.
• Emotional abuse: Name-calling, guilt-tripping, or playing mind games.
• Isolation: Controlling who you interact with or limiting your freedom.
• Financial abuse: Controlling finances or preventing a partner from working.

Q: What are some flags to look out for when a relationship starts to become unhealthy?

A: Abuse often starts with subtle signs, such as jealousy disguised as affection or disrespecting boundaries. Over time, these behaviors escalate into more controlling and demeaning actions. Love-bombing, a tactic of overwhelming someone with affection to gain control, is another red flag. Trusting your instincts is essential—if something feels unhealthy or threatening, it likely is. Recognizing these red flags early is a critical protective measure for your long-term well-being.

What hotline number should you call in case you need help for a family member, patient, or yourself?

If you or someone you know is experiencing abuse, support is available. The NYC Domestic Violence Hotline is available 24/7 at 800-621-HOPE (4673), or survivors can visit any Family Justice Center or NYC Health + Hospitals facility. In immediate danger, call 911.

NYC Health + Hospitals is committed to improving mental health access for survivors and continues to prioritize this population’s well-being.