The Christmas Effect
Psych 🧠- 323/500
Hello Reader
This paper investigates the so-called "Christmas effect" on mental health.
Contrary to popular belief, the authors found that, for the most part, Christmas does not lead to an increase in psychopathology.
What is it?
First, what is Psychopathology? The study of mental illness. It includes the signs and symptoms of all mental disorders. 1
They reviewed various studies exploring the use of psychiatric services, depression, substance use, self-harm, and suicide during the holiday season.
Decreased use of psychiatric services: Studies showed a decrease in psychiatric emergency room visits and inpatient admissions during the Christmas period, with a potential rebound effect after the holiday.
Worsening mood and loneliness: Some research suggested increased feelings of depression, loneliness, and anxiety around Christmas, possibly due to societal expectations of holiday cheer and family togetherness.
Increased alcohol-related deaths: There was evidence of a rise in alcohol poisoning deaths during Christmas, highlighting the potential for increased substance use during the holidays.
Read this far? You Deserve This Book of Psychology 💡
This book compiles 150+ biases & fallacies (with emojis) covered in last 2+ years!
Or an Amazon Kindle copy from here.
What do I need to know:
This paper provides a valuable overview of the existing evidence regarding the "Christmas effect."
It challenges assumptions about increased psychopathology during the holidays, but emphasizes the importance of recognizing specific risks and supporting patients both during and after the holiday season.
Christmas may have a protective effect: For many forms of psychopathology, Christmas appears to be a relatively safe time, with reduced rates of emergency service use, self-harm, and suicide.
Mood and substance use are exceptions: Depression and alcohol-related problems might be more prevalent during the holiday season.
Post-holiday rebound is a concern: The potential increase in psychopathology after Christmas highlights the need for continued support and vigilance during that time.
Source: