Stay safe during the holiday season

The holiday season can often be a busy and joyous time of year. For many, it includes quality time with loved ones, social gatherings, and opportunities to relax and celebrate.

But the holiday season can be a difficult time for individuals who have experienced harassment or sexual assault. For some, the holidays can increase concerns for safety. Individuals who have experienced harassment or sexual assault may have painful memories, feelings or anxiety before, during or after holiday gatherings.

Gatherings with family, friends and coworkers during the holiday season can lead to increased risk of harassment or sexual assault. A study conducted by Rape, Abuse, Incest National Network (RAINN) found that 93% of children who experience sexual abuse know their perpetrator and 34% are abused by a family member.

Alcohol abuse factors in 75% of sexual assault

Increased alcohol consumption during the holiday season can increase risk of harassment and sexual assault. Research by the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism found that 75% of perpetrators of sexual assault had been drinking alcohol when the assault occurred.

Holiday season includes quality time with loved ones

During this holiday season, VA encourages Veterans, family members, caregivers, survivors and employees to be aware of safety.

Learn skills to effectively identify incidences of harassment or sexual assault, take action safely, and support those who have experienced harassment or sexual assault.

Tips for holiday safety:

• Look for signs of harassment/sexual assault. A person may become emotionally withdrawn, disconnected or angry. They may also avoid social gatherings that they typically enjoyed during the holidays. Check in regularly if you suspect any of these signs. Let them know you are available and ready to support.
• Create a safety plan. Everyone should feel safe during holiday events and gatherings, especially people who have experienced harassment and sexual assault. Map out a plan that creates a safe and comfortable environment for all attendees, establish healthy boundaries, and never pressure anyone to attend or stay at an event.
• Take the training and learn how to stand up against sexual assault and harassment with VA’s Bystander Intervention Training. This easy-to-access online training provides tools and techniques to respond if you witness harassment or sexual assault. The training will increase confidence to recognize situations where harassment or sexual assault is taking place and equip you with the knowledge and skills to stop those situations.
• Connect with the Intimate Partner Violence Assistance Program (IPVAP) or Chaplain Services. Domestic violence victims often try to keep the peace at home during the holidays to avoid any incidents that can arise. If you or someone you know is experiencing intimate partner violence, VA’s IPVAP and Chaplain Services are available to help.
• Commit to the White Ribbon VA Pledge. White Ribbon VA is a national call to action to eliminate sexual assault, domestic violence and harassment across VA by promoting a positive change in culture. White Ribbon VA is an awareness movement that everyone can participate in.

Understanding the signs of harassment and sexual assault are key to staying safe during this holiday season. Any unsolicited verbal or physical contact of a sexual nature is sexual harassment. If you experience or witness an incident of harassment or sexual assault, explore VA resources for support and to learn more.

You can also obtain help by calling the Veterans Crisis Line at 988 and press 1, text 838255, or the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233 (SAFE) or TTY 1-800-787-3224.

For more information or to provide ideas for additional initiatives, visit VHA Assault and Harassment Prevention Office Home (va.gov).