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For many, December is the grand finale of the year—full of sparkling lights, cheerful music, and family traditions. But beneath the vibrant festivities lies a less-discussed reality: the holiday season can also be a significant source of stress. In fact, December is recognized as Holiday Stress Awareness Month—an opportunity to shed light on the emotional pressures that accompany the holidays and to share ways to manage them. Continue reading “December Is Holiday Stress Awareness Month: Understanding and Navigating Holiday Pressures”
Why winter and the holidays can feel so hard
How connection protects your mental health
Human beings are wired for connection. Even if you’re independent or introverted, regularly relating to others has deep psychological benefits. During the winter and holiday season, those benefits become especially valuable. Continue reading “Why winter and the holidays can feel so hard”
Honoring Human Rights Day in December: Why It Matters More Than Ever
As winter settles in and festivities fill homes across the world, December also brings a sobering and powerful moment of reflection: Human Rights Day, celebrated annually on December 10. For many, this date might appear as just another mark on the calendar, but its impact resonates far beyond a single day—echoing through history, current events, and the daily lives of billions. Continue reading “Honoring Human Rights Day in December: Why It Matters More Than Ever”
Seasonal Affective Disorder Awareness Month: Shining a Light on the Darkness of December
As December dawns, a familiar shift occurs—the air crisps, daylight dwindles, and festive lights flicker in homes and on city streets. But beneath the season’s glitter, many people quietly struggle with a much less talked-about annual event: the onset of Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). In recognition of this, December is designated as Seasonal Affective Disorder Awareness Month, making it an ideal moment to understand what SAD means, how it affects lives, and what can be done to support those who suffer. Continue reading “Seasonal Affective Disorder Awareness Month: Shining a Light on the Darkness of December”
Navigating Anxiety and Mental Wellbeing During Thanksgiving
The crackle of autumn leaves, the aroma of pumpkin pie, the culmination of family traditions—Thanksgiving can be a comforting holiday. But for many, it’s a season that magnifies emotional struggles, fuels anxiety, and tests even the most resilient minds. If the approach of Thanksgiving stirs more worry than excitement, know that your experience is common and valid. There are meaningful ways to safeguard your mental health and find moments of genuine peace during this often stressful time. Continue reading “Navigating Anxiety and Mental Wellbeing During Thanksgiving”
Why Practicing Gratitude During the Holidays Is Essential for Mental Health
As the year draws to a close and the holiday season approaches, we’re surrounded by messages of joy, generosity, and togetherness. Festive lights twinkle from windows, seasonal songs fill the air, and commercials showcase happy families exchanging gifts. Yet for many of us, the holidays can bring stress, loneliness, financial strain, or memories tinged with loss. Amidst all this, cultivating gratitude—actively focusing on what we appreciate—stands out as an essential, uplifting practice, especially for our mental health. Continue reading “Why Practicing Gratitude During the Holidays Is Essential for Mental Health”
New Federal Hemp Definitions: Closing the 2018 Farm Bill Loophole
On November 11, 2025, the U.S. Senate passed a continuing resolution to keep the federal government operating until January 30, 2026, narrowly averting a government shutdown. Lost in the headlines was a policy change with significant long-term implications: the passage of the FY 2026 Agriculture Appropriations Act as part of a legislative “mini bus.” This bill, if it becomes law, fundamentally redefines what “hemp” means at the federal level—and effectively closes the loophole that has fueled the hemp-derived cannabinoid industry since 2018. Continue reading “New Federal Hemp Definitions: Closing the 2018 Farm Bill Loophole”
November Is Early Childhood Mental Health Awareness Month: Why It Matters for Every Child
As the golden leaves of autumn blanket the ground and families gather to celebrate the holidays, November holds another importance that often goes unnoticed: Early Childhood Mental Health Awareness Month. It’s a time dedicated to shining a much-needed spotlight on the emotional well-being of our youngest children—those formative years that set the stage for a lifetime of growth, learning, and happiness. Continue reading “November Is Early Childhood Mental Health Awareness Month: Why It Matters for Every Child”
Navigating Seasonal Affective Disorder as Fall Approaches: Understanding, Coping, and Thriving
As the leaves begin to change and the air takes on a cool, crisp edge, there’s a sense of transition that sweeps across our lives every fall. For many, this season marks the return of flannel shirts, pumpkin spice, and cozy evenings. Yet, for millions of people, the shorter days and dwindling sunlight also signal the approach of something a bit darker: Seasonal Affective Disorder, or SAD.
In this post, let’s explore what Seasonal Affective Disorder is, why it happens, who’s susceptible, and—most importantly—practical ways to manage it as autumn settles in. Continue reading “Navigating Seasonal Affective Disorder as Fall Approaches: Understanding, Coping, and Thriving”
Halloween Safety: Navigating October’s Magic Without Substance Abuse
As October 31st approaches, anticipation for costumes, candy, and celebration is in the air. Halloween is a beloved holiday for many: kids roam neighborhoods in creatively spooky gear, adults dress up for themed parties, and friends gather for a night of frightful fun. Yet, with the festive atmosphere comes a sobering reality—Halloween is one of those nights when risky substance use tends to increase. Whether it’s alcohol, marijuana, or other drugs, managing temptations and making safe choices is crucial for having a night that ends well, not with regret. Continue reading “Halloween Safety: Navigating October’s Magic Without Substance Abuse”