Between family dynamics, financial strain, packed schedules, and the pressure to make everything “perfect,” it’s easy to feel overwhelmed before the holidays even begin.

October marks Domestic Violence Awareness Month—a time to honor survivors, raise awareness, and strengthen our commitment to prevention and support. Abuse takes many forms—emotional, financial, sexual, and physical. But the consequences extend far beyond visible harm.

Is it really empathy? Or is it emotional monitoring?

Here are some quick tips for difficult conversations over the holidays.

"In general, when people live in acute stress, either cracks in their relationship will be amplified or the light that shines through the...