(NAFB) For the 46 million people living in rural America, the holiday season can present added pressures to an already stressful time of year. In addition to higher rates of depression, suicide rates among people in rural areas are 64 to 68 percent higher compared to people living in large urban areas. Rural Minds is a nonprofit with the vision of a rural America where there’s no more stigma, silence or suffering around mental illness.
Jeff Winton, the Founder and Chairman of Rural Minds, explains how the holidays can increase pressure on families.
He says some rural residents cope with mental health challenges in unhealthy ways, especially when confronted with unmet holiday expectations of joy and happiness.
Dr. Nikki Shaffer, a nurse practitioner and the director of occupational health and wellness at Pfizer, talks about potential solutions. She says it’s important to prioritize self-care – whatever that might look like.
It’s also important to create a support network by leaning on friends, family, support groups, or even a therapist during the holidays. Shaffer says giving back can also help during the holidays.
If you or someone you know is suicidal or in emotional distress, dial 988 for 24/7 support. If this is a life-threatening emergency, call 911 or go to the nearest hospital emergency room. For more information on coping with holiday stress, go to ruralminds.org.
