Share

Not feeling the festive season? You are not alone

accreditation
iStock

Some of the things that depress people at Christmas include the commercialisation of Christmas, excessive self-reflection, unrealistic expectations, debt incurred over this season, and social gatherings with family or friends they might not feel like seeing, according to Psychology Today.

But interestingly enough, according to the National Institutes of Health (US), although the general mood (and feelings of loneliness and anxiety) of many people may be worse over Christmas.

With the abuse of alcohol and other substances, there is a reduction of admissions to psychiatric facilities over this period, as well as lower-than-normal suicides or suicide attempts in many countries the world over. Incidents of self-harming behaviour also decrease.

Read more: How to avoid stress and depression over Christmas

Suicide in SA

But, in South Africa, however, the month of December as a whole has the highest suicide rate of the year, according to Ms Zane Wilson, founder of the South African Depression and Anxiety Group.

But while Christmas itself may have a low suicide rate, in the days following Christmas, according to a Danish study from 1999, there is a 40 percent increase in suicide attempts.

So what should one do if one feels depressed or suicidal over this time? Mayo Clinic recommends calling a 24-hour helpline, seeing your doctor, psychologist or psychiatrist, or reaching out to a friend or loved one as a start.

Read more:

Pets a great help to people with depression

Excessive sweating linked to anxiety and depression

When should you see a psychologist?

We live in a world where facts and fiction get blurred
Who we choose to trust can have a profound impact on our lives. Join thousands of devoted South Africans who look to News24 to bring them news they can trust every day. As we celebrate 25 years, become a News24 subscriber as we strive to keep you informed, inspired and empowered.
Join News24 today
heading
description
username
Show Comments ()
Editorial feedback and complaints

Contact the public editor with feedback for our journalists, complaints, queries or suggestions about articles on News24.

LEARN MORE