NSW: Christmas a time of stress and suicide: Wesley Mission

AAP General News (Australia)
12-18-2004
NSW: Christmas a time of stress and suicide: Wesley Mission

SYDNEY, Dec 18 AAP - Christmas could be a time of great stress, even leading to suicide,
a prominent welfare group said today.

The festive season could be a time of contradictions, with people expecting a perfectly
happy day or holiday, Sydney Wesley Mission Superintendent Gordon Moyes said.

But in reality it could be a time when people of different generations, beliefs and
values came together, resulting in disappointment and conflict, Rev Moyes said.

Families should sit down and work out what was important to them before they were caught
up with pre-Christmas advertising, and the dictates of peers and extended family.

Additionally, some young people would be rejoicing at academic results, while others
felt despondent about the future.

"When issues are unresolved some young people undertake high risk behaviour on our
roads or in the surf, or by abusing alcohol or drugs," Rev Moyes said.

"Others withdraw, become depressed and contemplate suicide."

Rev Moyes said as the community prepared for Christmas, people should be aware of those
around them and any marked changes in behaviour that might indicate thoughts of suicide.

"The message to young people is that you are valued and someone will listen and care," he said.

AAP mk/bes/sdu

KEYWORD: XMAS SUICIDE

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