The South African Depression and Anxiety Group (Sadag) said they received 65 475 Suicide Helpline calls between January and September this year.
Sadag operations director Cassey Chambers said, “For many people, the festive season is not all parties and family fun. It’s a time of loneliness, depression and a possible relapse into old habits, like alcohol and substance abuse, making it all the more difficult to cope.”
Chambers said the festive season idealised society’s warmest emotions through advertisements and marketing. The ideal family, relationships and holidays were presented to the public constantly.
“However, in reality many of us may not have a sense of belonging with our families, many have difficult relationships, have lost close family members and may be experiencing financial strain, while managing the expectation of buying gifts or going on holiday.
“Most often, we are quite burnt out, tired and stressed by the end of the year. People feel they don’t fit in with the festive cheer and feel lonely and depressed.”
Chambers said for some, family could be the greatest source of stress and the festive season a time of loneliness and grief.
Some red flags to look out for among yourself, friends or family were withdrawing from social activities, feelings of frustration, anger and irritability, feelings of hopelessness and despair, especially regarding the future.
“More telltale signs are difficulty concentrating, feelings of worthlessness, a constant sense of sadness and even thoughts of death and suicide.”
There are various organisations available to provide support during the festive season blues.
“There is always help. There is always hope. And for so many people who feel alone, there is always someone at Sadag who cares.”
Details: Call the Suicide Helpline on 080 056 7567 or SMS 31393 and someone will call you back. Visit www.sadag.org for more information
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