Holiday Stress

State Officials Discuss Holiday Stress, Anxiety and Abuse

JEFFERSON CITY, December 22, 2007—State officials encourage Missourians in holiday stressful situations to seek out resources and get help before turning to violence.

“Law enforcement officials follow crime trends closely to give them better insight into criminal minds and unfortunately we see a spike in violence over the holiday season. Statistics illustrate a sharp increase in depression, alcohol and substance abuse, suicide and domestic violence,” said Mark James Director of Public Safety.

The stress of the holiday season can add to pressures that some people already have and it can affect their physical and mental health. State officials want to let people know that help is available. Department of Social Services along with the Department of Mental Health officials urge families and friends to support each other during this time of year.

“The holidays can be a stressful time and the level of activities and expectations can be so stressful it can increase the potential for child abuse and neglect. It is important for you to turn to those around you who can help if you feel overwhelmed,” said Paula Neese, Director of the Children's Division.

“While this time of year is full of activities focused on celebrations of friends and family the reality is that the season does not make problems go away,” said Joe Parks, M.D., director of the Division of Comprehensive Psychiatric Services for the Department of Mental Health. “This time of year can raise the level of stress that people feel.”

Parks said some people may fall into depression at this time of year. The natural support systems of co-workers, family and friends should not hesitate to talk to someone who appears depressed or stressed out. Resources available for persons who may need help include:

Suicide Prevention Hotline: 800-273-TALK (8255)
Child Abuse and Neglect Hotline: 800-392-3738
Mental Health Crisis: If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis, call the Access Crisis Intervention (ACI) hotline closest to your home. The numbers and the regions are available at www.dmh.mo.gov/crisis.htm.

*News Release*
*Public Safety*	Matt Blunt, Governor	Mark James, Director
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE For more information, please contact: Terri Durdaller Communication Director Work:(573) 751-4819 Cell: (573) 301-2023
State Officials Discuss Holiday Stress, Anxiety and Abuse JEFFERSON CITY, December 22, 2007—State officials encourage Missourians in holiday stressful situations to seek out resources and get help before turning to violence. “Law enforcement officials follow crime trends closely to give them better insight into criminal minds and unfortunately we see a spike in violence over the holiday season. Statistics illustrate a sharp increase in depression, alcohol and substance abuse, suicide and domestic violence,” said Mark James Director of Public Safety. The stress of the holiday season can add to pressures that some people already have and it can affect their physical and mental health. State officials want to let people know that help is available. Department of Social Services along with the Department of Mental Health officials urge families and friends to support each other during this time of year. “The holidays can be a stressful time and the level of activities and expectations can be so stressful it can increase the potential for child abuse and neglect. It is important for you to turn to those around you who can help if you feel overwhelmed,” said Paula Neese, Director of the Children's Division. “While this time of year is full of activities focused on celebrations of friends and family the reality is that the season does not make problems go away,” said Joe Parks, M.D., director of the Division of Comprehensive Psychiatric Services for the Department of Mental Health. “This time of year can raise the level of stress that people feel.” Parks said some people may fall into depression at this time of year. The natural support systems of co-workers, family and friends should not hesitate to talk to someone who appears depressed or stressed out. Resources available for persons who may need help include: Suicide Prevention Hotline: 800-273-TALK (8255) Child Abuse and Neglect Hotline: 800-392-3738 Mental Health Crisis: If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis, call the Access Crisis Intervention (ACI) hotline closest to your home. The numbers and the regions are available at www.dmh.mo.gov/crisis.htm.
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