Overview
- Historical records from the Hospital Italiano’s psychiatry service show roughly a 20% increase in mental-health consultations in December compared with the annual average.
- Experts cite powerful social demands for a flawless celebration, consumption pressures and early commercial cues that advance emotional load as key drivers of seasonal stress.
- Children are highly sensitive to family tension, with psychologists stressing secure environments, validation of feelings and protection from adult conflicts over gifts or scheduling.
- Older adults face heightened loneliness during the holidays, with clinicians warning that persistent sadness, loss of motivation, sleep disruption or thoughts of death warrant prompt care.
- Evidence-aligned advice includes acknowledging emotions, setting limits, keeping routines, delegating tasks, moderating triggers such as alcohol, planning realistic gatherings and reaching out to those at risk.