Mental health during Christmas

Health officials have issued the usual warnings amid the holiday feasting: eat in moderation to avoid cardiac problems, stroke, blood sugar spikes and the other health issues associated with overeating.

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Don't drive when drunk, tired or sleepy, because accidents also go up during the holidays.This year, the Department of Health has added to the list of advisories: the Christmas season is also associated with an increase in cases of depression leading to suicide. The DOH is encouraging people to be on the lookout for signs of despondency and to show kindness where possible.

In other countries such as the United States, however, studies have shown that suicide cases actually decrease during the Christmas holiday season.

While "holiday suicide" has also been debunked as a myth in Western Europe, some studies indicate an increase after the holidays.