For some, holidays aren’t always so jolly

KEREMEOS — While the holiday season may be the most ‘wonderful time of the year,’ for some families, for others, it can be a painful and depressing time of year.

For families experiencing trouble in the home, officials with the Lower Similkameen Community Services Society say counselors are available to help.

Abuse between parents and caregivers arise out of money problems, substances abuse, mental health problems or out of any number of personal stressors. Sometimes families work it out. Sometimes not.

Children are hurt by the fear of violence being done to those they look to for the basics of day to day life. The fear put simply is “who will take care of me if my parent cannot take care of themselves.”

Mothers caring for their small children, who cannot rely upon their male partner for care and respect and instead receive anger and even violence, need help for themselves and for their children.

Men who are frustrated and lost in the stressors of family life may give in to violent impulses.

For men wanting help with that kind of problem, locally based counselors can find assistance for their efforts at good parenting.

The hurt between the grown-ups and between the adults and children shows up in children who always seem afraid, cannot get along with others and try to avoid ordinary challenges.

Through the Lower Similkameen Community Services Society, families can access Children Who Witness Abuse counselors, who will spend time with younger children and engage them in activities including clay works, drawing, painting, board games and Lego.

Involvement in the imaginings and accomplishment of play can show ways to happier day to day living and help a little to smooth the way to a future of enjoyment in learning and in personal growth. Older children can also benefit from a serious and respectful review of the problems affecting them.

All Children Who Witness Abuse Counselors in 88 B.C. communities are funded The B.C. Ministry of Public Safety and Solicitor General.

Parents, caregivers and children between the ages of three and 18 are seen by appointment and with no special referral. Office hours are Tuesdays and Thursdays between 1 and 5:30 p.m. For more information call 250-499-2352