Upward trends of domestic violence and child abuse during the holidays

SOUTH BEND, Ind. -- With all of the business the holidays bring, you may not think about those who aren’t having such a happy time at home.

According to Domestic Violence Statistics, domestic violence is the leading cause of injury to women.

Studies also suggest that up to 10 million children witness domestic violence in some form every year.

These trends unfortunately increase during the holidays, when people are off of work and at home.

Some couples may find themselves arguing more, whether it's spending more time together than usual, financial hardships from holiday shopping or even increased drinking during the holidays.

When a child is present while a form of domestic abuse is taking place, child abuse is automatically taking place as well.

The YWCA wants to remind the community that it is a resource available to anyone who needs help getting away from domestic violence.

It provides services for not only women, but children who have been caught in the middle of the situation as well.

These services include support groups, and educational, substance abuse and financial programs. It also helps people search for jobs and apartments.

Counseling is also available for children who may have suffered from PTSD or other trauma as the YWCA works to break the cycle of abuse in children.