The social and financial pressure surrounding Christmas celebrations is underscored by several mental health care services which are also in high demand at this time of year.
“Christmas allows people to relive their past. There are many memories associated with this party, but it is often an element that makes people understand that they are not well,” explained psychologist Paul Langevin.
The mental health expert added that there is currently a lot of pressure on the mental health network, as several specialists are on holiday. “Private offices are usually closed, so people have to go to agencies and hotlines. Furthermore, it is a period of great distress.
Then there’s the traditional Christmas meal, which is a major source of anxiety for people with an eating disorder. “It’s a struggle every time. Imagine, it’s your phobia and in this time of abundance you find yourself surrounded by people staring at you. It is confronting. I am also sending this message for relatives, you can tell the person you are concerned, but avoid comments about weight and appearance,” recalled Sophia Zito, vice president of the board of Anorexia and Bulimia Quebec.
There is also social pressure to encourage consumers to spend beyond their limit. “People who arrive at the checkout with a credit card, some are afraid it won’t pass. Often the decision to consult a trustee is made after the holidays, when the credit card bills arrive,” said Gino Bouchard, trustee and director of Lemieux Nolet inc.
This year, Quebecers expect to spend an average of $1,090 in stores.
