Mental Health During the Holidays

This time of year, filled with the holidays, quality time with friends and loved ones, and the sense of a fresh start can be a meaningful time for many. It’s a season most people look forward to, but for some, it can increase anxiety, depression and suicidal ideation. This holiday season, make time in your busy schedule to learn the warning signs of suicide, encourage your friends and family to do the same and know how to respond when someone asks for help.

Holidays can bring joy and connection, but they can also amplify feelings of isolation or sadness for those struggling with their mental health. Additional financial stress, increased social pressure and isolation can lead to serious mental health concerns if left unaddressed. In 2014, the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) found that 64 percent of individuals living with a mental illness reported their conditions worsened around the holidays. A 2021 survey found that three in five Americans feel their mental health is negatively affected by the holidays.   Four out of five individuals considering suicide show some sign of their intentions, either verbally or behaviorally. Warning signs may include verbal threats about suicide, persistent depression, sudden changes in appearance or behavior and a loss of interest in hobbies once enjoyed. Recognizing these signs can help you respond before a situation becomes a crisis.