The Holiday Suicide Myth

One of the most common myths associated with suicide is that suicides occur more frequently during the holiday season. According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention the national suicide rate is lowest in December and highest in the spring and fall. Still, an analysis by the Annenberg Public Policy Center found that 40% of media reports on suicide since 2000 have perpetuated the myth. According to the report: "Perpetuating the myth not only misinforms readers but it also misses an opportunity to educate the public about the most likely sources of suicide risk, including major depression and substance abuse."