Trigger Warning: This post discusses suicide and self-harm.

The other day, I encountered two separate people who thought about harming themselves. In both cases, a Christmas tree was involved.

In one story, a woman shared on TikTok a message sent by her friend. It was a photo of a Christmas tree with the words:
“I hung the Christmas tree instead of myself today.”

The second story came from a querent. He was persistent about booking a reading, reaching out through every channel he could from midnight until early morning. We finally spoke at 7:30 a.m. He told me that as he stared at his Christmas tree, the urge to end things grew louder. Instead, he chose to book a reading with me. (I am a Tarot Reader, by the way).

I haven’t put up a Christmas tree in years. I no longer celebrate the holidays that way. This year, I almost did. I just didn’t feel compelled to.

After these encounters, I read more about suicide during the Christmas season. Here is what stood out.

Christmas is loud.
It is filled with messages about joy, togetherness, and warmth. For some, that noise does not comfort. It magnifies what is missing.

Suicidal ideation is rarely about wanting to die.
It is about wanting the noise to stop.

Hanging ornaments versus hanging oneself is not a random comparison. It is life and death presented in the same quiet space.

Please check on your friends.
And when they message you, really read what they are saying.

If you or someone you love is struggling, you don’t have to carry it alone.

Philippines – National Center for Mental Health (NCMH) Crisis Hotline
🌐 ncmh.gov.ph
📞 1553 (nationwide landline, toll-free)
📞 1800-1888-1553
📱 SMART/TNT: 0919-057-1553
📱 GLOBE/TM: 0917-899-8727

If you are outside the Philippines, please look for a local crisis line or mental health service in your area.
And if someone reaches out to you this season, pause.
Read their message again.
Sometimes what sounds casual is a lifeline.