Holidays & Suicide: The Intricate Relationship of Substance Abuse & Suicide

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When we think of holidays, most of us have only positive thoughts. For some, the word may bring to life the warmest and sweetest childhood memories; involving guests, visits, presents and vacations. For others, there would be the anticipation of a holiday in a family circle, or a long-awaited vacation in the subtropics. We rarely have disturbing thoughts in connection with this particular word.

suicide

However, life goes on and sad things can happen in a festive season. There is a theory that during a holiday season, the rate of suicide increases, mostly due to substance abuse, and the idea that people of a younger age are in a risk zone. It is important to know whether this theory is true, and what can be done to prevent suicide attempts.

Holiday Suicide Trend: Myth Or Reality?

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Recent researches show that seasonal suicide is mostly a myth. In reality, statistics indicate that suicide rates drop during the winter holidays. So how did this idea become so popular, even though it has no statistical proof? There may be several possible reasons:

  • Lots of people experience sadness and nostalgia during holiday seasons, and it is easy for them to believe that suicidal moods are more prevalent at this time.
  • Mass media puts more emphasis on suicides during holiday seasons because in these periods the media generally experiences a shortage of other, more “exciting”, news items.
  • The myth may be rooted in a world-famous movie ‘It’s a Wonderful Life,' where the main character tries to commit suicide. This movie is frequently shown during winter holidays.

Substance abuse in relation to the suicide rate

Unlike holidays, alcohol and drug abuse shows an alarmingly direct correlation with the suicide rate. Substance abuse leads to high levels of impulsivity and changes in the central nervous system that brings about mood swings. Self-awareness decreases and a person has less control over one’s actions. However, substance abuse as such is only a link on the way towards the fatal act; suicide has its own origin that must be discovered and healed. Possible reasons for substance abuse may include:

  • Peer pressure. This is especially common in young people, who are very vulnerable towards what they feel their social circle members think of them.
  • Stress, usually caused by a deep traumatic experience. Regular day-to-day anxieties and worries are not so likely to cause fatal thoughts, because these worries and anxieties keep people involved and active.
  • Existence of role models. People see family members, friends, role models or entertainers using alcohol or drugs and rationalize that they can also use these substances.
  • Boredom. The “give it a try” approach is especially common for the younger generation.
  • Relationship problems. Adults are just as vulnerable as teens as a result of relationship problems.
  • Financial problems. This is the most popular reason for substance abuse for older people.
  • Teenage rebellion. This is an attempt to boost self-confidence and to demonstrate independence from parents that makes teenagers try things that are prohibited.

By eliminating the very root of a problem, substance abuse may be stopped or reduced, thus decreasing the risk of suicide.

The Suicide Risk Zone

Some people may be in a higher risk zone for attempting suicide than others. There are certain situations that parents and friends should be aware of in order to be able to pay more attention to their beloved ones and prevent a possible fatal act.

  • People who consider committing suicide often talk about it. Younger people also may express their anxiety in social media. If someone you know is talking about harming themselves or says that he or she does not want to live, take it seriously. Consider talking to this person to help them face their issues, or contact their relatives to share your worries. For parents, it is recommended that they check their child’s Facebook page and browser history to trace any suicidal thoughts.
  • Suicides can trigger “copy-cat” attempts. Kids idolizing celebrities who kill themselves are more likely to try to commit suicide.
  • Men are at greater risk. Statistics show that women attempt suicide more often, but men are more likely to complete the act. Men are also less likely to express their feelings in public than women, which is why their intentions are less obvious and the suicide is less likely to be prevented.
  • Depression pills like A2X are beneficial while battling symptoms of depression.
  • If someone is buying a gun, it may be a dangerous sign. According to research, access to a firearm in the home significantly increases the risk of a suicide—by up to 10 times.

Suicide Prevention

Once you have noticed any dangerous behavioral patterns, it is time to act. What can be done to prevent suicide? It is not easy to change the person’s suicidal moods, but it is definitely worth trying.

  • Surround your beloved ones with support. Do your best not to allow them too much time alone. Help them feel needed, wanted and loved.
  • Involve them in some engaging activity. If they have any hobbies or there are certain things they enjoy doing, encourage them to partake in these activities.
  • Keep them active. The best coping skills are those that engage mind, body and spirit. Exercising, cooking, or simply walking together can have a positive influence on their mental and physical health.
  • Offer them participation in some volunteer experience. Helping others gives meaning and purpose to life.
  • Reach out for help. Sometimes it may be advisable to consult with professionals.

According to the World Health Organization, a suicide takes place somewhere in the world approximately every 40 seconds. We can all show more care and support to people around us, both on holidays and on regular workdays. A kind word said at the proper moment can help save someone’s life.

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