We’re especially excited to see everyone at Monsters on Main! We will be there passing out treats, greeting families, and joining in on the fun. Stop by our table, say hello, and learn more about how The Safe Place serves Conway County and the surrounding areas. Whether you’re a parent, a friend, or a neighbor, this event is the perfect chance to celebrate together and remind one another that Morrilton truly looks out for its own.

While Halloween is all about costumes and candy, it’s also a good time to talk about what “safe” really means. At The Safe Place, we work year-round to make sure that safety isn’t just a word, it’s a reality for survivors of domestic violence and their children. For many families, home should be the safest place in the world. Sadly, for some, it isn’t. That’s why we’re here: to offer support, emergency shelter, and hope for anyone who needs to rebuild their life free from fear and harm.

As you celebrate this Halloween, we encourage everyone to keep an eye out for one another, especially for our little trick-or-treaters. Use reflective gear, stay in groups, and always check your child’s candy before eating. If you’re driving, be extra cautious, children are excited and may dart across streets unexpectedly. Safety starts with awareness, and a few simple steps can make all the difference in ensuring everyone enjoys a night of fun without worry.

And remember, safety isn’t only about Halloween night. It’s something we should all think about every day, in our homes, relationships, and neighborhoods. If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, please know that help is available. The Safe Place is more than just a shelter; we’re a community of advocates and survivors committed to helping each person find strength, healing, and safety. You are not alone.

So, from all of us at The Safe Place, we wish you a spooktacular Halloween filled with laughter, treats, and a few friendly frights. Come visit us at Monsters on Main, grab some candy, and say hi, we’d love to see your costumes and share in the celebration. Together, we can make Morrilton not just a great place to trick-or-treat, but a safer place for everyone, every day of the year.

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What is Make a Difference Day?

Make a Difference Day began in 1992, created by USA Weekend Magazine and supported by the Points of Light Foundation, with the goal of inspiring ordinary people to take action in their communities. It quickly became one of the largest annual days of service in the United States. Although the original sponsors have changed over the years, the message has not: helping others benefits everyone, both giver and receiver.

This special day isn’t tied to a single organization or cause. Instead, it encourages people to identify needs in their own neighborhoods and take steps to meet them. It’s about recognizing that kindness is contagious, and that the collective effort of individuals, each contributing in their own way, can lead to a stronger, more compassionate society.

How Can We Make a Difference?

There’s no single way to “make a difference.” The beauty of this day lies in its flexibility, everyone can contribute based on their abilities, time, and passions. Here are a few ways you can participate this October 25th:

Support a Local Shelter or Food Bank

Many shelters and food pantries are stretched thin, especially as colder months approach. Donating canned goods, warm clothing, or personal care items can provide immediate help. Volunteering a few hours to organize donations or serve meals can make an even greater impact.

Help Neighbors in Need

Making a difference doesn’t have to be a large-scale project. It can be as simple as mowing an elderly neighbor’s lawn, raking leaves, or running errands for someone who struggles with mobility. Small acts of care strengthen the bonds that hold our communities together.

Give Back Through Your Skills

Everyone has something to offer. Teachers can tutor, mechanics can help fix cars for struggling families, artists can paint murals that brighten public spaces, and tech-savvy individuals can assist nonprofits with online outreach. Sharing your talents is one of the most personal ways to give back.

Advocate and Educate

Sometimes, making a difference means using your voice. Share information about important social issues, promote local volunteer opportunities, or support awareness campaigns. Whether it’s domestic violence prevention, environmental conservation, or youth mentorship, awareness fuels action.

Involve Children and Teens

Teaching young people about compassion and service helps raise the next generation of changemakers. Family volunteer days, school service projects, or neighborhood cleanups can show kids how meaningful it is to contribute to the world around them.

Every Effort Counts

Make a Difference Day is a reminder that we don’t have to wait for the perfect moment or grand opportunity to create change. Every person, through kindness, time, or simple compassion, has the ability to make life a little brighter for someone else.

This October 25th, take the chance to reach out, lend a hand, and be part of something bigger than yourself. When we all do a little, together we accomplish a lot.

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Domestic Violence Awareness Month began in 1981 as a “Day of Unity” and grew into a nationwide campaign to honor survivors, remember those lost, and educate the public. The purple ribbon has become a symbol of hope and courage, a reminder that domestic violence is not a private matter, but a community issue that touches every part of society.

Every minute in the United States, about 20 people experience physical abuse from an intimate partner. One in three women and one in four men will experience domestic violence in their lifetime. These numbers represent real people, parents, children, friends, and neighbors, whose lives are affected by fear, control, and trauma.

Awareness is powerful. When people speak openly about domestic violence, it breaks isolation and shame. Survivors see that they are not alone, and communities become more prepared to respond. This month encourages us to learn the warning signs of abuse, understand the barriers survivors face, and take action to support local shelters that provide critical services like safe housing, counseling, and legal advocacy.

Unfortunately, this year brings a new crisis. Domestic violence shelters in Arkansas are facing deep funding cuts from federal sources, including the Victims of Crime Act (VOCA). Some shelters have already lost more than half of their grant funding. These cuts mean fewer beds for families fleeing danger, fewer advocates to assist survivors, and fewer resources for children who have witnessed violence. When a shelter closes its doors or has to turn someone away, the consequences often times are life or death.

Domestic violence shelters are not just emergency services, they are community anchors. They reduce strain on hospitals, law enforcement, and social services. They help survivors rebuild their lives, find stability, and protect their children. When these programs lose funding, the entire community feels the impact.

Arkansas shelters receive some support through state grants and the Family Violence Prevention and Services Act, but local donations and advocacy are now more critical than ever. This October, we are asking our neighbors, businesses, and civic leaders to step up.

You can help by:

• Wearing purple and sharing information about Domestic Violence Awareness Month.
• Donating funds, supplies, or time to your local shelter.
• Speaking up to lawmakers about restoring and protecting victim service funding.
• Believing and supporting survivors in your community.

Domestic violence thrives in silence, but awareness and action create traction. This month, and every month, we honor the strength of survivors and reaffirm our commitment to ending abuse in all its forms. Together, we can build safer, stronger Arkansas communities where everyone has the right to live free from violence.

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For Children – A Temporary Safe Haven

One of the few bright spots for children experiencing domestic violence is the school environment itself. For six to eight hours a day, school can provide a structured and predictable routine, something that may be completely absent in their home life. Teachers, counselors, and school staff often serve as trusted adults who can provide emotional support, notice behavioral changes, and sometimes even intervene when abuse is suspected.

School also offers children a chance to be themselves without constantly managing the stress of keeping family secrets or walking on eggshells to avoid triggering a violent episode. Friendships can offer emotional grounding and reduce the feelings of isolation and shame that often come with witnessing or experiencing abuse.

However, the benefits of school can be limited by the trauma children carry with them. Chronic exposure to violence can cause problems with concentration, behavior, and academic performance. Some children may act out, withdraw, or struggle with anxiety. And for children who worry about the safety of their non-abusive parent during the school day, even the relative safety of the classroom can feel unsafe.

For the Protective Parent – Relief and Risk

For the non-abusive parent, sending the children back to school can be both a relief and a risk. On one hand, the parent may finally have a window of time to plan, seek resources, or simply breathe without the constant pressure of managing their child’s physical safety 24/7. School hours can offer a brief reprieve, a chance to think clearly, and perhaps even start preparing for a safer future.

But the back-to-school season also comes with financial strain and logistical challenges. Many survivors struggle to afford supplies, clothing, and fees, especially if the abusive partner controls the money or sabotages the parent’s employment. Transportation, enrollment paperwork, and health requirements can become battlegrounds for control or opportunities for the abuser to interfere.

There is also the added fear of safety; if the abuser has access to the children or school information, the protective parent may worry about kidnapping, manipulation, or the child revealing details that could result in retaliation at home.

Moving Forward with Support

Schools play a critical role in the lives of children affected by domestic violence. When school personnel are trauma-informed and vigilant, they can be part of the child’s support network and help connect the family to vital services.

For survivors, the back-to-school season may open the door to new possibilities, but only if we, as a community, recognize the invisible burdens they carry. Providing flexible support, financial assistance, and protective policies in schools can help both children and parents find safety and stability, one school day at a time.

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Benzodiazepines, drugs like Xanax, Ativan, Klonopin, and Valium, are widely prescribed for anxiety, insomnia, muscle spasms, and seizures. But what’s often overlooked is how common and long-term this prescribing has become. In the United States alone, over 30 million adults use benzodiazepines, and roughly 86 million prescriptions were written last year. Although medical guidelines recommend these drugs only be used for two to four weeks, nearly a quarter of users remain on them long past that window. In fact, many patients end up taking them for months or even years, often without being fully informed of the risks (WSJ).

One of the most serious problems with benzodiazepines is how quickly they can cause dependence. Research shows that 30–45% of chronic low-dose benzodiazepine users are physically dependent, even at low dosage they should only be prescribed for a maximum of 7–14 days to avoid dependence (Benzodiazepine–practice and problems of its use). Symptoms of withdrawal can range from severe anxiety and insomnia to muscle pain, cognitive impairment, and hallucinations. In some cases, these symptoms can persist for months or even years, a condition known as protracted withdrawal syndrome. For some, it becomes disabling. Tragically, many people who were originally prescribed these medications for relief from anxiety or sleeplessness end up battling a much more serious and long-lasting set of symptoms once they try to stop.

There’s also a growing concern around the misuse of these drugs. In 2017, nearly 6 million Americans aged 12 and up reported misusing tranquilizers, primarily benzodiazepines. Often taken without a prescription or in combination with opioids and alcohol, this kind of misuse significantly raises the risk of overdose. By 2013, benzodiazepines were involved in about 31 percent of all prescription drug overdose deaths in the U.S. Because of this, the FDA now requires black-box warnings when benzodiazepines are prescribed alongside opioids, underscoring how deadly the combination can be (Addiction Help).

The importance of World Benzodiazepine Awareness Day lies in its mission to bring these often-ignored realities into public view. It encourages informed consent and cautious prescribing. It reminds us that short-term solutions for anxiety and insomnia shouldn’t lead to long-term suffering. The movement also offers validation and community for people who’ve felt isolated by their experience with these medications. Around the world, individuals use this day to share their stories, call for policy reform, and advocate for safer, more transparent medical practices.

In the end, W-BAD is about challenging assumptions, like the idea that prescription always means safe. It’s about holding systems accountable for the harm done under the guise of help. And it’s about offering hope to those struggling, often silently, with the consequences of a drug that was supposed to heal but instead did damage.

Read more:

https://thesafeplacearkansas.com/world-benzodiazepine-awareness-day/

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It’s something we wish wasn’t true, but statistics and our experience show that holidays and summer months often lead to a rise in domestic violence calls and shelter needs. More time spent together at home, financial strain, childcare challenges, alcohol/substance use, and family expectations can sometimes fuel situations where emotions run high and safety becomes a concern.

The Fourth of July, in particular, brings its own set of challenges. Parties, drinking, loud noises, and late nights can trigger conflict in some households. For survivors of domestic violence or those living in dangerous situations, what should be a joyful day can instead become stressful or even frightening.

If this is something you or someone you love is experiencing, please know that you are not alone. Our shelter is here. Our doors are open, our phone lines are answered, and support is available, no matter the day or time.

At the same time, this day is also a reminder of what independence truly means. Freedom, safety, and the right to live without fear are things everyone deserves, not just on holidays but every day. For those working toward breaking free from abuse, this holiday can serve as a symbol of hope and new beginnings.

If you are planning to spend the day with family and friends, we encourage everyone to check in on loved ones. Sometimes, a simple message like, “I’m thinking of you,” or “How are you doing?” can make a big difference. Let’s all look out for each other.

Our Tips for a Safe and Peaceful Fourth of July:

• Plan ahead. If loud fireworks are triggering for you or your children, have a backup plan like a quiet activity indoors.
• Set boundaries. It’s okay to skip gatherings that don’t feel safe or comfortable.
• Know your resources. Keep hotline numbers handy just in case you or someone else needs support.
• Check on friends or family. A quick check-in can be lifesaving.

Our Shelter is Here 24/7

No matter what day it is, you are never alone. Whether it’s the Fourth of July or any other day of the year, we are here with shelter, support, safety planning, and resources.

This Fourth of July, we celebrate not only freedom for our country but also the personal freedom every individual deserves, the freedom to live free from violence, control, and fear.

From all of us at The Safe Place, we wish you a safe, joyful, and peaceful Independence Day.

If you or someone you know needs help, call us at 501-354-1884 (or toll free at 1-888-554-2501)  or the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 800-799-7233.

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Why It Matters

Self-respect is about knowing your worth. It means setting boundaries, standing up for yourself, and refusing to settle for less than you deserve. Self-love is about treating yourself with kindness, giving yourself grace, and understanding that you are valuable, not because of what you do for others but simply because you exist.

When you have self-respect and self-love, your life changes in powerful ways. You stop chasing validation from others. You stop tolerating toxic relationships. You start making decisions based on what’s right for you, not what others expect. It’s not selfish, it’s survival. Without it, you end up drained, resentful, and lost.

How to Practice It

Building self-respect and self-love is a process, not a one-time event. It starts with how you speak to yourself. Notice that inner voice. Is it kind? Or is it constantly criticizing you? If it’s the latter, it’s time to challenge that voice. Replace “I’m not good enough” with “I am learning, and I’m doing my best.”

Setting boundaries is another huge part of this. It’s okay to say no. It’s okay to walk away from situations or people who make you feel small or worthless. Boundaries aren’t walls; they’re doors with locks. You decide who gets access to your energy.

Taking care of your physical and emotional well-being also matters. Get enough sleep. Eat foods that nourish you. Make time for things that bring you joy, whether that’s music, art, nature, or simply rest. Celebrate your wins, big or small.

Sometimes, this work means unlearning what the world taught you about yourself. If you grew up being told you weren’t enough, it takes time to believe otherwise, but it’s possible.

What Happens If You Don’t?

When self-respect and self-love are missing, life can feel like a constant uphill battle. You might find yourself stuck in unhealthy relationships where people take advantage of you. You may overextend yourself, constantly saying yes when you mean no. You may feel burnt out, disconnected, and unsure of who you really are.

Worse, a lack of self-respect often invites disrespect from others. When you don’t believe you deserve better, you’re more likely to accept poor treatment.

You Deserve Better

The truth is, you are worthy of love, kindness, and respect, including from yourself. No matter what your past looks like or what mistakes you’ve made, you are allowed to start treating yourself with care today. Self-love isn’t arrogance. It’s not selfish. It’s the first step to living a life that feels good on the inside, not just one that looks good on the outside.

You are enough. Always have been. Always will be.

https://modernmansjournal.substack.com/p/not-good-enough-try-this-reframe

The Power of Self-Respect and Self-Love

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Here’s the deal, most parents already know to warn kids about not sharing their address or not talking to strangers. But what about the stuff no one really talks about?

Let’s start with emotional manipulation. That’s a big one. There are people out there who slowly build trust with kids online, sometimes over weeks or even months. They don’t come right out and say anything creepy. They act like a friend. They tell the kid things like “Your parents don’t get you, but I do.” That’s grooming, and it’s sneaky.

Then there’s the issue of content that messes with your kid’s head. Not just violent stuff or adult content, but things that seem harmless at first. Some videos start out funny or cool, but take a weird, dark turn that can be disturbing. Some creators talk about things like suicide, self-harm, or hatred in a way that pulls kids in. It’s subtle, but it sticks.

What’s even trickier? The way apps and games are built to keep kids hooked. That “one more video” feeling? It’s not random. Algorithms are designed to give your kid more of what they react to. And if your kid is feeling anxious, lonely, or insecure, those feelings can get worse the longer they scroll.

So what do you do if you’re not a tech expert?

You don’t need to know how to code or understand every app. You just need to be curious. Sit down with your kid and ask them to show you what they’re into. Not in a judgmental way. Just “Hey, can you show me that game you keep talking about?” Let them be the expert for a minute. That opens the door for real conversation.

And don’t just focus on the dangers. Talk about why they like what they’re doing online. What makes it fun? What makes them feel weird? What kind of people have they run into? These talks don’t need to be formal. Start one in the car. Ask a question while you’re doing dishes. Keep it low-pressure.

Also, let your kids know it’s okay to tell you stuff, even if it’s weird or scary or embarrassing. If they think they’ll get in trouble, they won’t tell you when something goes wrong.

One last thing: don’t rely only on parental controls or monitoring apps. Those tools can help, sure, but they won’t replace your involvement. The best filter is a kid who knows how to spot something sketchy and feels safe coming to you when they do.

Summer is supposed to be fun and free, but a little awareness goes a long way when your kid is surfing the wild world of the internet.

www.create-learn.us/blog/internet-safety-tips-for-kids/

https://thesafeplacearkansas.com/internet-safety-2/

https://thesafeplacearkansas.com/safer-internet-day/

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PTSD is a mental health condition that can develop after someone goes through or witnesses a dangerous or disturbing event. For people who have experienced domestic violence, this might include physical abuse, emotional cruelty, or even constant fear and control. These types of abuse can leave lasting marks that are not always visible.

Many people think of PTSD in relation to war veterans, but domestic violence survivors can suffer from it too. In fact, studies show that people who have been in abusive relationships often develop PTSD. The brain remembers trauma, especially when it happens over and over again. This can lead to nightmares, flashbacks, anxiety, and a constant feeling of being on edge.

Some survivors may avoid certain people, places, or situations that remind them of the abuse. Others may have trouble sleeping or concentrating. Some feel numb or disconnected from others, even from loved ones. These symptoms are not signs of weakness, they are the brain’s way of trying to protect itself from more harm.

Unfortunately, PTSD is often misunderstood. Some people think a person should “get over it” or that they are being too sensitive. But healing from trauma takes time, care, and support. It is important to recognize that PTSD is a real medical condition, and it deserves proper treatment.

Treatment options for PTSD include therapy, support groups, and in some cases, medication. Talking to a trained mental health professional can help survivors process their trauma and learn how to cope with triggers in healthy ways. There is no one-size-fits-all approach, but recovery is possible.

For domestic violence survivors, finding a safe and supportive space is a key step toward healing. Shelters and programs that serve survivors understand the effects of trauma and can connect individuals to the help they need. These services may include counseling, safety planning, and resources for rebuilding one’s life.

Raising awareness about PTSD helps reduce the shame and silence that many survivors feel. It also helps family members, friends, and the community learn how to better support those affected. Kindness, patience, and understanding can make a big difference in someone’s recovery journey.

During PTSD Awareness Month, take a moment to learn more about the signs of trauma. Speak out against domestic violence and help others understand the deep and lasting effects it can have. Healing begins when survivors are believed, supported, and treated with dignity and care.

No one should have to face PTSD alone. Together, we can create a world where survivors of domestic violence feel safe, respected, and empowered to heal.

https://bhtherapygroup.com/why-ptsd-affects-women-more-than-men-and-what-we-can-do-about-it/

https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/9545-post-traumatic-stress-disorder-ptsd

https://thesafeplacearkansas.com/understanding-ptsd/

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Fun Activities to Enjoy Together

Summer is the perfect time to explore new hobbies and activities with your kids. Local libraries often offer free reading programs with prizes to keep children engaged. It’s also a good time to take nature walks, go on scavenger hunts, or spend the day at a nearby park. If you have access to a pool, swimming is a favorite way to stay cool. Just be sure to supervise closely or enroll your child in swim lessons if they’re still learning.

Craft projects, backyard camping, family bike rides, or gardening are other creative ways to spend time together. Not every day has to be filled with big outings. Sometimes, the most memorable days come from simple pleasures like chasing fireflies, making homemade popsicles, or building a fort inside the house.

Common Summer Safety Concerns

When kids are out of school, their routines change, and that can lead to safety risks if you’re not careful. One of the most common concerns is heat-related illness. Make sure your child stays hydrated, especially if they’re playing outside for long periods. Encourage breaks in the shade and use sunscreen with at least SPF 30. Reapply it every couple of hours and after swimming or sweating.

Water safety is another big issue. Whether your child is at the beach, the pool, or even a small backyard kiddie pool, always supervise them. Accidents can happen in just seconds. Life jackets are a must when boating or around deep water.

If your kids are riding bikes, scooters, or skateboards, helmets are non-negotiable. It’s also a good idea to remind them about traffic rules and the importance of staying on sidewalks or in designated biking areas.

With many parents working during the summer, some kids may spend more time home alone or with older siblings. Talk to them about stranger danger, what to do in case of an emergency, and the importance of locking doors and not answering them for people they don’t know.

Keeping Summer Safe and Sweet

Summer should be a time for fun, adventure, and making memories. With just a few precautions, you can help your child enjoy all the excitement while staying safe. Stay involved, keep communication open, and look for ways to balance freedom with a little structure. The more prepared you are, the more you’ll both enjoy these sunny, school-free months.

Laid Back Summer Activities That You and Your Kids Will Enjoy

Summer Fun for Kids

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