Although it is true that fewer individuals commit suicide during holidays than other times of the year, for individuals without family and friends or for those with no place to go, the holidays can be an extremely depressing time. This loneliness causes an increase in hospital emergency department visits from individuals who are depressed or have engaged in potentially self-destructive behavior.

Mark DeSilva, MD, medical director, Emergency Department, Gottlieb Memorial Hospital, part of the Loyola University Health System, explained:

“For those who have no support system, no friends, family, loved ones or even coworkers, the holidays can prove very deadly. Everywhere, there are signs of gatherings, gift exchanges, happiness and love. If you are not experiencing what the rest of the world is enjoying, it is very bitter.”

For over 12 years DeSilva has worked in the Emergency Department (ED), at Gottlieb Memorial Hospital:

“The holidays bring out desperate behavior in unstable individuals and they frequently end up in the ED as a medical emergency.”

The Emergency Department at the Gottlieb Memorial Hospital operates as a Level II Trauma Center. 24 hours a day 7 days a week; specialists are on-call to deal with critical cases. All physicians at the Hospital are board certified in Emergency Medicine. All staff nurses are certified in Advanced Cardiac Life Support, and several are certified in Advanced Pediatric Life Support.

The nurses and physicians at the hospital are required to train and educate paramedics and local emergency medical technicians (EMTs) for Elmwood Park, Melrose Park, Bensenville, Leyden Township, Franklin Park and Rive Grove.

Usually individuals show signs they are feeling overwhelmed. These signs provide opportunities for others to intervene.

DeSilva provides 5 tips to identify those who might be vulnerable during the holidays:

    If you see signs of extreme behavior in a friend, family member or acquaintance, act immediately. Talk to the individual and tell them the behavior that you are seeing and offer to help. There are social services, community groups, churches and other programs that can intervene.

    The downturn in the economy also has contributed to depression and engagements in risky behavior. Loss of a job or the unavailability of extra money for presents for loved ones can lead to low self-esteem and contribute to the person’s making poor choices. By recognizing when a person is in trouble, and speaking out, you may not only save them a trip to the ED, but also save a life.”

    Written by Grace Rattue