The rise in the number of assault cases imposes a substantial burden on police and health staff in emergency departments.

Orange Health Service director of emergency medicine Dr Shamus Shepherd said alcohol and drug intoxication are recognised risk factors for abusive, threatening and violent behaviour.

“Drug- and alcohol-affected patients may not be competent to make safe and rational decisions about their care, which can be extremely difficult for staff to manage when they are non-compliant with treatment,” he said.

“Episodes of abuse or violence also affect the ability to provide care to other patients and can be particularly distressing for vulnerable patient groups (children, the elderly) who may be exposed to such behaviour.

“Those who need to attend hospitals should be respectful of staff who will aim to provide the best possible care for patients and their families.”

The WNSWLHD said emergency departments across the health district will be staffed as normal during the festive period.

NSW Health is also appealing to residents to look after their loved ones this time of the year.

NSW Health chief psychiatrist Murray Wright said the festive time could trigger depression and increase the risk of self-harm for some people.

“The risk of self-harm and suicide increases in the days following Christmas and also on New Year’s Day,” Dr Wright said. 

“For people with a depressive illness or experiencing severe stress, the festive season can be an emotionally difficult time.”

Dr Wright said families should look after those who are vulnerable and feeling isolated.

“This [depression] is often exacerbated for vulnerable people who see others catching up with their families for Christmas and new year celebrations when they don’t have families or other sources of support,” he said.

Dr Wright warned that the risk of self-harm can increase when people become intoxicated with alcohol and other drugs.

“Alcohol, particularly when under a lot of stress or coping with a depressive illness, can increase the risk of self-harm as it can lead to impulsive and irrational behaviour.”