As it’s that time of year, I would like to talk about what the holidays can do for addiction and mental health. While the Christmas season does hold great religious significance to many, to many others it’s a time for reunions, celebration and overindulgence in food, alcohol and other drugs.
I’m not trying to rain on Christmas’ parade but it is important to remember that while it is a joyous occasion, it also involves an increase in general stress of having to plan or attend numerous events. Then there is also the financial strain, accidents caused by drivers who get drunk at parties, domestic violence and reminders of loved ones who are no longer with us. These factors can result in depression, heavy drug use and even suicide.
For both practicing or in denial alcoholics, Christmas is a time to look forward to as everyone consumes more alcohol than usual – even people who never drink use a little alcohol during the holidays. This tends to make that individual feel unnoticed (so he/she can drink how much ever desired) and also increases the likelihood of someone in recovery to relapse.
Christmas is even a difficult time for people in recovery. I spoke with Mr. Clearance Young, a friend and mentor, who is the coordinator of Phoenix Recovery Project (a drug rehabilitation center in Mon Repos). He explained that there are more admissions (for illicit drugs) throughout this season but the increase is mostly after the holidays. He explained that, as expected, clients are more depressed around this time, missing their family and friends – who do visit more often during the holiday season.
This is good and bad news- it means that people who otherwise would have admitted to having a problem will ignore it to participate in the holiday festivities. On the brighter side, they reach out for help after this period.

Christmas and Mental Health
Tis the season to be jolly? Not necessarily
We all love to see how much happier our friends and family are during this time. It is important to remember however that depressed individuals do not get into the Christmas spirit like everyone else- they get sadder. This could be for many reasons such as unrealistic expectations, additional stress and anxiety, less time to exercise, loneliness- especially if everyone around has a partner – and most importantly, they see how happy other people are and they do not understand why they can’t feel just the same.
As I am new to GPHC, I spoke to my friend and colleague Dr. Meena Rajkumar about what happens in the Psychiatric Ward during the holidays.
She explained to me that there is an increase in the number of admissions during this time of year and as I expected, it is mostly from drug induced psychosis. She continued with the fact that more men than women are admitted but on a brighter note, they too do get visits from their families, even though it’s the holidays.
Take away message? Keep track of your drinking/drug use. Temptation will be everywhere but don’t be afraid of moderation or of saying no in general. Also, try not to force/ encourage or make people feel bad about not drinking – I know this happens! For those who want to cut down, you can make subtle changes like switching to beers that have less alcohol content or try drinking a glass of water in between every two drinks. Believe me- these small things can make a difference.
If you’re feeling low, take some time to do activities that you love, spend time with people who make you feel good and remember that where anything stands, something else stands alongside it- you are never alone.
Next week is my final column for 2015. One change I would love to see (within our community) for 2016 is the way we all speak and treat each other and I’m going to discuss the benefits of this change. I will also write about the current controversial topic of corporal punishment. Does it result in good or bad mental health? Join me next week!

Suicide Helpline numbers: 223-0001, 223-0009, 623-4444, 600-7896
Don’t be afraid to seek help. Say Yes to life and No to drugs! Always!