Hi Kimberly,

Practical ways to lower stress and avoid risk behaviors while celebrating with purpose.

I’ll admit, when I planned my newsletter topics, I didn’t anticipate that “risk behavior avoidance” would fall in December. But maybe it’s perfect timing. While I personally haven’t struggled with substance use, some of my family members have. I’ve seen firsthand the pain it causes—not only to the individual but also to family and friends.

What’s striking is how hidden it can be. People can appear functional for a long time, and from the outside, you might never guess what they’re battling. That invisibility is part of what makes substance misuse so dangerous.

The holidays, while joyful for some, can be a season of overwhelm, grief, or disconnection for others. Traditions aren’t always healthy. Excuses are easy. And what starts as “just one day” can spiral. That’s why this month, we’re taking an honest look at risk behaviors and how to navigate them with grace and wisdom.

Holiday Stress & Risk Behaviors

According to the American Psychological Association, 38% of people say their stress increases during the holiday season. Stress can trigger physical illness, depression, anxiety—and substance misuse.

Other studies show:

• Alcohol use rises 27% during the holiday season compared to the rest of the year.
• A quarter of annual liquor profits come from the month between Thanksgiving and New Year’s Day.
• New Year’s Day is the deadliest day for alcohol-related crashes, with 58% of crashes involving alcohol. Fatal drunk-driving crashes spike 116% above average—the highest of any holiday.

Why does this happen? Unrealistic expectations, stressful family dynamics, overbooked schedules, financial tension, alcohol-centered traditions, grief, nostalgia, and isolation all play a part.

(Source: AddictionCenter.com)

Align Your Celebrations with Your Values

This holiday season, pause to reflect on the who, what, when, where, and how of your celebrations.

• Does this gathering align with your values and give life, or does it create anxiety and overwhelm?
• Could you limit your time, adjust the activity, or create a new tradition that speaks light into your life?
• Are there people you can spend time with who share your values and support your well-being?

Remember the true meaning of this season and choose to live that out intentionally.

Coming Up 

• Next Week: How substance use disorder hijacks the brain—and how quickly our bodies can heal.

Connect with Me

• Virtual Coffee Chats & Local Coffee Chats for those who would like to find out a little more about what Hope and Healing Lifestyle is about or perhaps would like to refer someone that might benefit from working with me. 
• Find Your Energy Discovery Session for those ready to take the next step in their healing from the pain and inflammation and change course from their current health trajectory. 
• Visit me at hopeandhealinglifestyle.com or you can reply to this email.

Happy Hope and Healing this Holiday to you and yours,

Kim

Hope and Healing Lifestyle Coach

“We are all broken, that is how the light gets in.” — Ernest Hemingway