Mary Kuhlman, Illinois News Connection
SPRINGFIELD, IL-(Effingham Radio)- The holiday season is ramping up, and while many people look forward to festivities with friends and family, for others this time of year can worsen stress, sadness and depression.
Some people have increased anxiety due to travel obligations, or the expenses of gift-giving.
Others neglect self-care trying to make the holidays special for family or loved ones.
There is no evidence that the suicide rate spikes at Christmas, but suicides have dramatically increased in the U.S. in recent years.
And Dennis Gillan, who lost two brothers to suicide, said each person needs coping mechanisms to help maintain their holiday equilibrium.
“Let’s get comfortable talking about mental health so we don’t have this increase,” Gillan said. “And then, too, if you’ve been down this road, take care of yourself. Self-care is not selfish.”
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, suicide is now the 10th-leading cause of death nationwide, and the second-leading cause for people ages 15-34.
Since 1999, Illinois’ suicide rate has increased by 23 percent.
Nancy Molitor is a clinical psychologist with the Illinois Psychological Association.
She explained the holidays can be especially tough for people who have experienced a recent loss or have struggled with depression.
She added this is not the time to cancel therapy sessions.
“If they have depression and they’re also not treating it, the thoughts become darker and darker, and the person starts to feel hopeless and helpless, and not able to see a light at the end of the tunnel,” Molitor said. “And when they start to get that hopeless and helpless, they withdraw. This is a warning sign for loved ones to think about.”
Because people thrive on strong friendships and family relationships, Molitor said too much solitude at any time of year can bring on feelings of despair.
She encouraged people to be present for loved ones who are depressed, even if they are acting ornery.
“Try not to assume that they’re just a Grinch and difficult, and you don’t want to be around them. But try to go that extra mile to see what might be going on, and give that person the gift of at least being there for them and caring,” she said. “And that can really be one of the most important gifts we can all give somebody this year.”
To reach the Suicide Prevention Lifeline, call 1-800-273-TALK (8255).