The holiday season brings a time of excitement and rest from work for many, but for those with mental health conditions or difficult social circumstances this can be a particularly difficult time.
We mostly hold onto idealised visions of what our festive period will look like: A time of rest from work, of togetherness, of fun and celebration and enjoyment. Holiday movies all over various channels at the moment portray a narrative of families reuniting, new romances being formed, old romances being rekindled – all under the magic lights and beautiful glisten of Christmas.
However, for many this turns into a time of feeling more isolated, for feeling the deep loss of loved ones, of lost opportunities, and of lost relationships. Those with families around might not find the time as idealised beforehand, and struggle with family dynamics, conflict, and resentment. Both of these scenarios lead to increased hopelessness during this period, a feeling of not belonging, of being alone and never finding the togetherness again. This in itself increases the risk (and the rates we see reflected in statistics) of increased depression, anxiety and deaths by suicide over this time.
We also see at this time of year that people are financially and physically struggling, with end of year and new year financial commitments looming, travel, the pressure to provide gifts. This often compounding a time of burnout and exhaustion that hard work through the year can lead to.
This is all compounded by the fact that mental health and medical resources are less available during this time- most psychologists and therapists go on longer leave in this time, treating doctors are away, doctors aren’t taking new patients just before the holiday and medical aid benefits are depleted.
I write this not to give a message of “doom and gloom” over the wonderful festive season, but to make people aware that their loved ones and family may be needing a bit more support, some grace, some empathy in this time. And to make those struggling aware that this is something you’re not alone in at all. There are so many people feeling the same way. Please reach out if you’re struggling and concerned about the upcoming time.
One of the things patients of mine have found particularly helpful in the past if they are aware that they struggle with loneliness in this time, is to give their time to others who are also alone – think of old age homes in your area, children’s homes, community groups. Going to kick a ball with a kid who is feeling alone, or have some tea with someone elderly needing some company, costs only our time. It can give a sense of community and purpose to those offering their time, but also those receiving that care.
We are available until the 20th of December for support, please reach out. In any emergency situation, your closest emergency room (both state facilities and private facilities) have got doctors on duty who can assist you. Also feel free to call SADAG’s help lines whenever you need:
Suicide Crisis Helpline
0800 567 567
CIPLA Mental Health Helpline
0800 456 789
Substance Abuse Helpline
0800 12 13 14