False!\u00a0 According to the National Center for Health Statistics, this is actually a time when suicide rates decline.\u00a0 However, media tends to promote the idea that suicide rates increase during the holidays.\u00a0 Unfortunately, this can really hurt\u00a0those who are depressed by giving them an \u201cout\u201d with a copycat mentality.<\/p>\n
There appears to be some speculation that suicide rates decline during the holiday season because those who might be considered suicidal are able to more readily receive emotional support from those filled with the \u201cChristmas Spirit\u201d.\u00a0 Let\u2019s face it, Christmastime we tend to open up our hearts, care a little more, and do for
\nothers what we might not normally do throughout the year.\u00a0 What does this tell you?<\/p>\n
Personally, it makes me realize that compassion saves lives.\u00a0 During this time of year, we love to pull a glove off of the school\u2019s Christmas tree and provide gifts for those in need.\u00a0 We tend to be more generous with our gifts and our time.\u00a0 We volunteer to bring meals to those in need.\u00a0 We hug more and ignore other\u2019s needs less.<\/p>\n
My Christmas Wish this year is that we can all hang on to that \u201cChristmas Spirit\u201d throughout the New Year and bring compassion to so many who are hurting so much that they contemplate taking their own lives.\u00a0 One act of compassion can actually save a life.\u00a0 To me, there is nothing more important.<\/p>\n
I wish you a very Merry Christmas and a Compassionate New Year!<\/p>\n
Resources for Suicide Prevention and Suicide Hotline:<\/p>\n