PROJECT: THE FESTIVE SEASON - ITS IMPACT ON DEPRESSION AND THE INCREASED RISK OF SUICIDE
- Isabel Spies
- 2 days ago
- 5 min read
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The Festive Season is widely portrayed as a period of joy, celebration, and togetherness.
However, for many individuals, this time of year can intensify emotional distress rather than alleviate it.
Beneath the surface of public festivities, a significant number of people experience heightened depression,
loneliness, anxiety, and, in severe cases, suicidal ideation.
Understanding how and why the Festive Season affects mental health is essential for prevention,
early intervention, and community awareness.
SOCIAL ISOLATION:
One of the primary contributors to increased depression during the Festive Season is social isolation.
While families and friends gather, individuals who are estranged, grieving, single, divorced, or geographically separated may feel their loneliness more acutely.
The contrast between societal expectations of happiness and their personal reality can deepen feelings of exclusion, worthlessness, and despair.
For those already struggling with depression, this emotional gap can become overwhelming.
FINANCIAL PRESSURE:
Financial pressure is another major stressor during this period.
Increased expenses related to gifts, travel, food, and social obligations place a significant strain on individuals and families, particularly those facing unemployment, debt, or economic insecurity.
The inability to meet perceived expectations can lead to shame, anxiety, and a sense of failure—factors strongly linked to depressive episodes and suicidal thoughts.
DISRUPTION OF ROUTINE AND SUPPORT STRUCTURES:
The Festive Season also coincides with a disruption of routine and support structures.
Regular work schedules, access to mental health professionals, support groups, and community services may be limited or unavailable.
At the same time, alcohol and substance use typically increase during this period, which can worsen depressive symptoms, impair judgment, lower inhibitions, and heighten impulsive behaviour.
Alcohol abuse, in particular, is a well-documented risk factor in suicide attempts.
GRIEF AND UNRESOLVED TRAUMA:
For individuals coping with grief or unresolved trauma, the Festive Season can be especially painful.
Anniversaries of loss, memories of deceased loved ones, and traditions that can no longer be shared often resurface during this time.
These emotional triggers may intensify feelings of hopelessness and emotional exhaustion, particularly when individuals feel pressured to “be strong” or appear cheerful for others.
Importantly, people experiencing severe depression may mask their distress during festive gatherings, leading friends and family to overlook warning signs.
Sudden withdrawal, changes in behaviour, giving away possessions, increased substance use,
or statements expressing hopelessness should never be dismissed as seasonal mood changes.
Suicide risk often increases when emotional pain intersects with access to means, isolation, and impaired judgment—conditions that may all be present during the Festive Season.
From a prevention and safety perspective, awareness is critical.
Open conversations about mental health, checking in on vulnerable individuals, reducing stigma, and encouraging professional help can save lives. Families, employers, communities, and security and support organisations all play a role in identifying risk factors and facilitating assistance before a crisis occurs.
While the Festive Season may represent celebration for many, it can be a period of profound emotional distress for others.
The increased risk of depression and suicide during this time is a serious public health concern that requires empathy, vigilance, and proactive intervention. Recognising that not everyone experiences the Festive Season in the same way is the first step toward protecting lives and ensuring that support reaches those who need it most.
Here are three South African helpline numbers you can contact for support with depression,
crisis counselling, and suicide prevention:
Suicide Crisis Helpline – 0800 567 567
A national toll-free line offering immediate support for individuals experiencing suicidal thoughts or crises.
South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG) – 24-Hour Mental Health Helplines
• Suicide Crisis Line: 0800 567 567
• Cipla Mental Health Helpline: 0800 456 789
These lines are staffed to provide counselling, referral, and support for depression, anxiety, and related mental health issues.
LifeLine South Africa – 0861 322 322
A national counselling service offering support for emotional distress, depression, and crisis intervention.
If you or someone else is in immediate danger, please contact local emergency services.
(in South Africa, 112 from a mobile or 10177 for ambulance).
Seeking help is a vital step toward safety and support.
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