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Suicidal Thoughts and the Holidays
Suicidal thoughts can be a problem at this time of year. Here's why and where to get help if needed
Many people believe that suicides peak at this time of the year because the holidays may be hard to deal with for those who are alone or who are struggling with depression or another form of mental illness. While suicides can occur at any point in the year, they are not more common at this time. In fact, in Montgomery County, August has been the month when most suicides happen according to the Montgomery County Suicide Prevention Task Force.
Nonetheless, during the holidays many people may be troubled by thoughts of suicide or harming themselves but not be in immediate danger of doing so. If such thoughts are persistent and hard to control, they should not be ignored. While most people who experience suicidal thoughts do not make a suicide attempt, thoughts are where suicide risk begins.
Studies indicate that thoughts of suicide tend to arise when someone is in a situation where they feel trapped, or one that they feel will get worse and that nothing can be done. Suicidal ideation also occurs when someone does something that brings on shame or if he or she feels they have been a disappointment and let those close to them down or not fulfilled their expectations. Thoughts of suicide can arise at any age.
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Thoughts of suicide may also occur after the death of a family member or friend. This is especially the case after a suicide. Holidays may bring up memories of losses that can sometimes lead to thoughts of dying or self-harm.
Alcohol misuse or abuse may also bring on suicidal thoughts, particularly if a loss of sobriety or a DUI are involved. Those who have experienced abuse, bullying, other victimization, or trauma may frequently have to deal with suicidal thoughts.
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What should you do if you or someone you know has thoughts of suicide? If you are in the care of a mental health provider they should be contacted. You can talk to a crisis specialist at any time by calling the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 800-273-TALK (8255). Veterans can be connected to the VA counselors at The Veterans Crisis Line by calling this number and pressing one [1]. In Montgomery County, you can reach Montgomery Country Emergency Service at 610-279-6102 or ACCESS Services at 855-634-2673.
