Have you ever heard that more people die by suicide around the holidays because they feel depressed?
Not true, explains Raymond Tucker, PhD. This is a common misconception he often encounters while counseling patients and training medical students as an assistant professor of psychology at LSU and clinical assistant professor of psychiatry at LSU Health Sciences Center/Our Lady of the Lake in Baton Rouge.
In reality, suicide rates tend to decrease during the holidays and peak in the spring and summer. Also, depression alone is not an accurate predictor of suicide, Tucker says. While 16 million episodes of major depression occur annually in the U.S., around 50,000 individuals die by suicide each year.
Still, understanding these myths offers valuable insights to help manage feelings of stress and curb holiday blues.
Insight No. 1: Focus on What You’ve Stopped Doing
Many people feel stressed or isolated during the holidays, but the underlying issue may be a disruption to routines rather than the holiday season itself.
For example, weight gain or increased stress often correlates with abandoning regular exercise, healthy meal routines or fulfilling social activities.
The remedy? Return to simple, daily habits. Consistent mealtimes, regular exercise, meaningful social connections and a steady sleep schedule can work wonders for mental well-being no matter the season.
Insight No. 2: Take Action Before Motivation Arrives
“It’s a myth that motivation comes before action,” Tucker says. “Motivation sometimes doesn’t come until after a behavior.”
Many people wait for a spark of motivation to eat healthier, exercise or reconnect with loved ones. However, action itself often generates the motivation to continue.
“If you feel unmotivated, give yourself a break,” Tucker says. “Recognize you feel off, and that by getting up and doing the activity you will feel better and be more motivated in the future.”
Insight No. 3: Adjust Expectations While Honoring Traditions
The holiday season can bring both joy and stress, especially when traditions evolve over time. Instead of focusing on how things have changed, think about what truly matters to you about the holidays and find ways to celebrate those aspects.
Identify the elements that make the season meaningful to you and your loved ones. Whether it’s a favorite recipe, a cherished family tradition or giving back to the community, focus on what’s most important.
“Try to live in line with your values and the things you hold important,” Tucker says. “It may not be a perfect holiday, but it can still be meaningful and fulfilling.”
Suicide Prevention Lifeline: If you or anyone you love maybe struggling with thoughts of suicide, or if you want to know more about how to help somebody, please call the suicide prevention hotline at 1 (800) 273-8255, or text 741741.
