top of page
griffin jd.jpg
Nov 85 min read

PROJECT: THE 2024 HOLIDAY SEASON (PART 2) - RISING SUICIDE RATES

YOU MAY SHARE THIS PUBLIC DOCUMENT

 

The holiday season brings intense emotional challenges for some, making it a time of year when the risk of suicide tragically increases. There are many reasons for people to feel hopeless and forlorn at this time - work-related stress, financial pressure, unemployment, divorce, the passing of a loved one, and for individuals who feel disconnected from others or view the coming year as filled with challenges. This season is particularly difficult for some people.

 

The widespread acceptance of alcohol and drug use during the Festive Season has a detrimental effect on individuals

who are already struggling with mental health issues. Alcohol and drugs significantly worsen suicidal thoughts by impairing judgment, increasing feelings of hopelessness, and lowering inhibitions. They may create a temporary sense of relief

but often intensify underlying emotional pain and distress. For individuals already struggling with suicidal thoughts,

substances act as a trigger, making it harder to cope with negative emotions and increasing the risk of impulsive actions. Alcohol and drugs also interfere with mental health treatments,

preventing individuals from seeking or responding to help effectively.

 

The festive period may intensify feelings of hopelessness and loneliness, and the shift to a new year can

make it hard to envision a positive future, sometimes leading to thoughts of self-harm.

Studies show that there is a significant increase in suicides, specifically on Christmas Eve and New Year's Day. 

 

It is critical to stay vigilant, compassionate, and supportive during this season, especially regarding mental health.

 

WARNING SIGNS:

  • One of the most common signs of suicidal ideation is social withdrawal.

  • If a person who usually enjoys social gatherings or family events suddenly stops attending or makes excuses to avoid them, it could indicate a larger issue.

  • Isolation is often a coping mechanism for those feeling overwhelmed or hopeless.

  • When someone begins giving away belongings or items they once deeply valued, it can be a subtle signal of their intentions.

  • This act is often a way for them to gain closure with the life they plan to leave behind.

  • If someone close to you starts distributing personal belongings without a clear reason, do not hesitate to show concern, gently ask questions, and, if possible, encourage them to seek support.

  • A sudden shift in mood, especially from deep sadness or apathy to sudden cheerfulness, can be particularly alarming.

  • While this may appear positive, it is essential to note that this change can signify something far more concerning.

  • In many cases, individuals who have resolved to end their lives experience a sense of relief and peace after making the decision, and this may manifest as a happier demeanour.

  • If you notice a rapid, uncharacteristic mood change, take it seriously.

  • Expressions of despair or remarks about feeling like a burden can be red flags for suicidal ideation.

  • If someone shares feelings of hopelessness and helplessness or makes statements such as, "I don't see the point" or "The world would be better off without me," these should be taken seriously.

  • Significant changes in sleep patterns, such as sleeping too much or too little, along with a noticeable change in appetite, may indicate mental distress.

  • While these symptoms alone are not necessarily signs of suicidal thoughts, they often accompany depression, which is a significant risk factor for suicide.

  • Checking in with someone whose sleeping or eating habits have shifted could open a pathway for them to discuss their feelings.

 

WHAT TO DO:

  • If you observe these signs in someone, do not hesitate to approach them with empathy and understanding.

  • Let them know you are there to support them without judgment.

  • Encourage them to contact mental health professionals, such as counsellors, psychologists, or support groups, or talk to trusted family members and friends.

  • If necessary, you can help them connect with mental health hotlines or suicide prevention resources.

  • Mental health challenges often feel overwhelming for the person going through them.

  • By showing genuine concern and support, you can be crucial in reminding them that they are not alone and that help is available.

 

SADAG (South African Depression and Anxiety Group)

SADAG offers helplines that are available to anyone seeking assistance, whether for themselves or someone else:

  • 0800 21 22 23 (08:00 to 20:00)

  • 0800 12 13 14 (08:00 to 20:00)

  • SMS 31393 for help

SADAG provides free access to trained counsellors who can help assess the situation and connect you to local counsellors, support groups, or mental health facilities.


Lifeline South Africa

Lifeline provides 24-hour telephonic counselling and support to individuals in emotional distress:

  • 0861 322 322 (24-hour helpline)

  • Lifeline also offers face-to-face counselling and trauma debriefing sessions at local centres.


Suicide Crisis Helpline

For more urgent cases, the Suicide Crisis Helpline provides immediate support to people in need:

  • 0800 567 567 (toll-free)


Childline South Africa

If you are concerned about a child or young person, Childline offers support for children in distress:

  • 0800 055 555 (24-hour toll-free helpline)


The South African Federation for Mental Health

This organisation promotes mental health awareness and provides resources and information about mental health services across the country. It can also help connect individuals with local mental health professionals and support groups.

  • 011 781 1852

 

As a last resort, do not hesitate to contact Mr. Bolhuis directly in your efforts to save the life of a loved one.

 

PREVIOUS RELEVANT PROJECTS:

 

Specialised Security Services invites the public to the Mike Bolhuis Daily Projects WhatsApp Group.

This group is important in delivering insights into the latest crime trends, awareness, warnings and the exposure of criminals.


HOW TO JOIN THE MIKE BOLHUIS DAILY PROJECTS WHATSAPP GROUP:

 
CONTACT MR MIKE BOLHUIS FOR SAFETY AND SECURITY MEASURES, PROTECTION, OR AN INVESTIGATION IF NEEDED.

ALL INFORMATION RECEIVED WILL BE TREATED IN THE STRICTEST CONFIDENTIALITY AND EVERY IDENTITY WILL BE PROTECTED.
 

Regards,

Mike Bolhuis

Specialist Investigators into

Serious Violent, Serious Economic Crimes & Serious Cybercrimes

PSIRA Reg. 1590364/421949

Mobile: +27 82 447 6116

Fax: 086 585 4924

Follow us on Facebook to view our projects -


EXTREMELY IMPORTANT: All potential clients need to be aware that owing to the nature of our work as specialist investigators there are people who have been caught on the wrong side of the law - who are trying to discredit me - Mike Bolhuis and my organisation Specialised Security Services - to get themselves off the hook. This retaliation happens on social media and creates doubt about our integrity and ability. Doubt created on social media platforms is both unwarranted and untrue. We strongly recommend that you make up your minds concerning me and our organisation only after considering all the factual information - to the exclusion of hearsay and assumptions. Furthermore, you are welcome to address your concerns directly with me should you still be unsatisfied with your conclusions. While the internet provides a lot of valuable information, it is also a platform that distributes a lot of false information. The distribution of false information, fake news, slander and hate speech constitutes a crime that can be prosecuted by law. Your own research discretion and discernment are imperative when choosing what and what not to believe.


STANDARD RULES APPLY: Upon appointment, we require a formal mandate with detailed instructions. Please take note that should you not make use of our services – you may not under any circumstance use my name or the name of my organisation as a means to achieve whatever end.


POPI ACT 4 of 2013 South Africa: Mike Bolhuis' "Specialised Security Services" falls under Section 6 of the act. Read more here: https://mikebh.link/fntdpv

 
SSS TASK TEAM:
 
 

Copyright © 2015- PRESENT | Mike Bolhuis Specialised Security Services | All rights reserved.


Our mailing address is:

Mike Bolhuis Specialised Security Services

PO Box 15075 Lynn East

Pretoria, Gauteng 0039

South Africa

Add us to your address book


THIS PUBLIC DOCUMENT WAS INTENDED TO BE SHARED, PLEASE DO SO.

684 views0 comments

Recent Posts

See All

Comments

bottom of page