The holiday season is often viewed as a protective buffer against serious mental health crises. Family gatherings, traditions, and social connection can temporarily reduce outward signs of distress. In fact, research indicates that hospitalizations, suicide attempts and completions, self-harm behaviors, and first-time therapy visits tend to decrease in the week leading up to and during Christmas.
At first glance, this may appear reassuring.
However, the same research shows a critical and often overlooked pattern: the week immediately following Christmas is associated with a sharp increase in these same mental health crises. While many individuals hold themselves together through the holidays, the emotional toll often surfaces once the season ends.
Why Risk Increases After the Holidays
Many people experiencing depression, suicidal ideation, or emotional distress make a conscious or unconscious decision to “get through” the holidays. They may avoid hospitalization, conceal their struggles, or suppress symptoms in order to protect loved ones, meet expectations, or avoid disrupting celebrations.
When the holidays are over:
Social connection often drops suddenly
Structure and routines dissolve
Emotional exhaustion sets in
Financial stress becomes more apparent
Feelings of loneliness, disappointment, or grief intensify
For some, this emotional crash can be profound.
What This Means for Families and Caregivers
If you are concerned about a loved one, it is important not to assume that appearing “okay” during the holidays means they are truly doing well. Many individuals are skilled at masking distress—especially when they feel pressure to maintain a certain image or not “ruin” the holiday.
Trust your instincts. If something feels off, it is worth paying attention to.
Talk to Them—Directly and Compassionately
One of the most common fears people have is that asking about self-harm or suicidal thoughts might “put the idea in someone’s head.” Research and clinical practice consistently show that this is not true.
Asking someone directly:
Does not increase suicidal thoughts
Does not plant ideas that weren’t already there
Does communicate care, safety, and openness
In many cases, it provides relief—permission to finally say what they have been holding inside.
A simple, calm question such as:
“I’ve noticed you seem really overwhelmed lately. Have you been having thoughts about hurting yourself?” can open the door to meaningful support.
How You Can Offer Support
Check in after the holidays, not just during them
Listen without trying to fix or minimize
Encourage professional support when needed
Help reconnect your loved one to routines and structure
Stay present and follow up—one conversation is rarely enough
If there is immediate concern about safety, seek professional or emergency support right away.
🎵 Music Therapy Corner: Supporting Loved Ones Through Music
Music can serve as a gentle, non-threatening way to connect when conversations feel difficult.
Try this with a loved one:
Invite them to share a song that reflects how they are feeling right now
Listen together without commentary or interpretation
Let the music do the talking when words feel heavy
Shared music experiences can foster emotional expression, reduce isolation, and provide a sense of being seen—especially during vulnerable post-holiday periods.
Final Thoughts
The holidays can mask distress rather than heal it. Caring for loved ones means staying attentive beyond the celebrations and being willing to ask difficult but life-saving questions.
If you are worried about someone, reaching out is an act of courage and care. Silence does not protect people—connection does.
If you or someone you love needs immediate support, professional help is available, and you do not have to navigate this alone. Reach out and schedule a consultation/appointment with Core3 today!