Debunking the Myth: Suicide and the Holiday Season

By Caroline Harroe (Harmless CEO)

The holiday season, with its twinkling lights and festive cheer, can feel like a time of joy and togetherness. But for many, it can also be a period of heightened stress, loneliness, and emotional difficulty. This contrast can sometimes lead to the misconception that suicide rates surge during Christmas.

At Harmless, we want to address this misconception head-on. The truth is, there’s no concrete evidence to support the idea that suicide rates increase significantly during the Christmas holidays. While it’s true that some individuals may experience increased distress during this time, it’s crucial to remember that suicide is a complex issue with multiple contributing factors, and it’s rarely caused by a single event or time of year.

Validating Your Feelings
If you’re finding the holiday season challenging, please know that your feelings are valid. It’s perfectly normal to experience a range of emotions during this time, including sadness, anxiety, or loneliness. The pressure to feel joyful and connected can be overwhelming, especially if you’re already struggling with your mental health.

Why the Myth Persists
The misconception about Christmas and suicide may persist for several reasons:

• Confirmation Bias: We tend to notice and remember information that confirms our existing beliefs. If someone already believes suicide is more common at Christmas, they may be more likely to notice news stories or anecdotal evidence that supports this idea.

• Media Portrayals: The media sometimes perpetuates this myth by focusing on tragic stories that occur during the holidays.

• Social Isolation: For some, the holidays can highlight feelings of loneliness and isolation, which can be particularly challenging for those already struggling with their mental health.

Focus on Facts and Support
Instead of focusing on alarming narratives, let’s focus on facts and support:

• Suicide is a year-round issue: Suicide is a serious public health concern that affects people of all ages and backgrounds throughout the year.

• Reach out for support: If you’re struggling, please reach out for help. There are many resources available, including Harmless, Samaritans, and other mental health organisations.

• Connect with others: Make an effort to connect with loved ones or engage in activities that bring you joy and comfort.

A Message of Hope
If you’re feeling overwhelmed this holiday season, please remember that you’re not alone. There is support available, and things can get better. Reach out to someone you trust, seek professional help, and prioritise self-care.

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If you need support from Harmless and The Tomorrow Project, you can make a referral here.

Harmless and The Tomorrow Project will be running a reduced service across the festive period, but you can find details here of who to contact if you need support during this time.