Understanding Mental Health and Suicide Prevention During the Holidays
While suicide rates do not rise over the holidays, stress, loneliness, and grief can still make the holidays difficult.
The holiday season, while joyous for many, can be profoundly challenging for others. Contrary to popular belief, research shows that suicide rates do not spike during the holidays (Annenberg Public Policy Center, 2023). But, increased stress, feelings of loneliness, or unresolved grief can make this period especially difficult and highly impactful for people. It’s important to be extra aware of a potential increase in mental health concerns, the warning signs of suicide, and the need to prioritize suicide prevention. Here are some key warning signs to watch for via the National Institute of Mental Health:
- Expressing Suicidal Intent: Talking about or making plans for suicide.
- Behavioral Changes: Acting anxious, agitated, or engaging in reckless behavior.
- Depression: Persistent sadness or loss of interest in activities.
- Perceived Burden: Feelings of being a burden to others.
- Feelings of Entrapment: Expressing a sense of unbearable pain or feeling trapped.
- Substance Abuse: Increased use of alcohol or drugs.
- Hopelessness: Voicing feelings of hopelessness or lack of purpose.
- Feelings of Increased Loneliness: Few or no meaningful relationships.
- Sleep Disturbances: Excessive or insufficient sleep.
- Withdrawal: Isolating from social interactions.
- Anger and Aggression: Displaying uncontrolled rage or talking of seeking revenge.
- Mood Swings: Extreme fluctuations in mood.
- Aggressive Behavior: Acts of aggression toward oneself or others.
If you notice any of these signs in yourself or someone else, it’s crucial to take action and seek help immediately. You can contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255) or text “HELLO” to 741741 for support.
Suicide touches most people in some way. If you or your loved ones feel distressed and need immediate support, please call or text 988 to the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline or access their online chat via 988lifeline.org/chat.
Click Here to Reach the 988 Suicide & Crisis LifelineLearn More
- From Thanksgiving to New Year’s: Protecting Your Mental Health During the Holidays (American Foundation for Suicide Prevention)
- Managing Your Mental Health During the Holidays (NAMI: National Alliance on Mental Illness)
- Surviving Painful Holiday Emotions (NAMI: National Alliance on Mental Illness)
- Avoiding Holiday Stressors: Tips for a Stress-Free Season (NAMI: National Alliance on Mental Illness)
Helpful Resources
- National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255 or simply “988”
- Crisis Text Line: Text “HELLO” to 741741
- The Trevor Project: Providing confidential support for LGBTQ youth in crisis, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Hotline: 866-488-7386. Text: “START” to 678678. Online chat: thetrevorproject.org/get-help-now
- The Trans Lifeline: A 24/7 hotline staffed by transgender people for transgender people. USA: 877-565-8860
- SAGE LGBT Elder Hotline: Connects LGBT older people with friendly responders. For LGBT elders and caretakers. USA: 877-360-5428
- To Write Love on Her Arms: Mental Health Toolkit
Resources for All New Yorkers
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