Christmas and Suicide

Last updated on: December 26, 2017 at 2:37 pm by Dr. Laurel Shaler

Christmas and Suicide 2017-12-26T14:37:08-04:00 Dr. Laurel Shaler

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Do suicide rates increase during the Holiday season? Especially in December? In particular, as we get closer and closer to Christmas?

The widespread answer is a resounding “YES!” The truth is actually…

No.

In fact, suicide rates are lower in December than any other time of the year.

You may be wondering why I even bother to bring this point up. There’s an important reason. According to both the Center for Disease Control and the Annenberg Public Policy Center, this common myth may actually inhibit prevention methods during the rest of the year.

While mental health professionals screen for suicidal ideations around the year, it is important that we know that it’s actually more common in other seasons. And, the public at large needs to understand the real reasons for suicide: it’s not holiday blues, it’s serious (often untreated) depression.

Of course, and unfortunately, people do become suicidal and people do commit suicide in December. We cannot forget that. We just shouldn’t spread misinformation that hampers suicide education and prevention.

If you or a loved one is experiencing symptoms of depression, please don’t hesitate to reach out and get help today (call 1-800-273-8255). And may you all experience peace and joy this holiday season and throughout the year.

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