BY GABRIELLE KROEGER
For North Country This Week

Seasonal depression is real, but St. Lawrence County Department of Public Health officials say suicide is a year-round problem, not a holiday phenomenon.

It is typically thought that suicide rates and seasonal depression tend to rise during the holiday season, but that is just not true, and the numbers in St. Lawrence County supports that.  According to the CDC, around 50% of articles written spread the claim that suicide increases during this time of the year, but in reality, December is the month with the lowest suicide rates.

“St. Lawrence County views suicide rates for an entire year as any loss is too many, but based upon data from the CDC, suicide rates do not increase over the holiday season the way most would think,” said Lindsay Best, the Mental Health Services Coordinator for Public Health. “According to the CDC data, suicide rates peak in the spring and fall. I feel that is consistent in the North Country as well.”

The important thing for everyone to remember is help is available.

“Those who are struggling in St. Lawrence County can always call Reachout, a 24/7 Crisis Support Line, for someone to talk to,” Best said.

There is also the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline that individuals can call or text, and they will be connected with a counselor who can provide support.

Seasonal depression tends to occur during the fall and winter, but it is not likely because of the holidays. This is when the days get shorter and there is less exposure to natural light, Best said.  That’s not to downplay the holiday’s being a difficult time for many.

“Some may experience an increase in stress and loneliness during this time of year for various reasons, such as financial strains, their family lives far away, or they have lost a loved one in the months prior,” Best said.

Stress is high during this time of the year, and there are many resources available to anyone who is struggling. There are several mental health clinics in St. Lawrence County where people can receive support. There is an appointment Bulletin Board that gives information on time frames for non-crisis appointments.

“Be kind to yourself, especially this time of year,” Best said. “It’s OK to say no, put yourself first, set boundaries, and take a step back. Always remember there is hope.”

These resources are available all year long. Suicide is a huge problem and according to the CDC, more than 36,000 people take their own lives each year. However, this problem has decreased this year in the North Country.

“So far this year we are seeing a decrease in the number of people we have lost to suicide than in three years,” Best said.

The St. Lawrence County Suicide Awareness Coalition built a strong foundation this year, and they will continue with it in 2023.

“More information about the St. Lawrence County Suicide Awareness Coalition can be found on the Coalition’s  Facebook​ page or an individual can send an email to STLCSAC@stlawco.org,” Best said.