As the year winds down, December brings colder weather, holiday excitement, and a unique set of mental and emotional challenges. This month’s wellness spotlight focuses on three important topics: Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), Read a New Book Month, and National Impaired Driving Prevention Month. Each offers an opportunity to check in with ourselves, support others, and build healthier habits as we enter a new year.
For many people, winter doesn’t just mean snow and sweaters—it also brings noticeable shifts in energy and mood. Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a form of depression triggered by seasonal changes, most commonly in the fall and winter months.
Reduced daylight can disrupt the body’s internal clock and affect the production of serotonin and melatonin—two chemicals that play a major role in mood and sleep. This shift can leave people feeling more tired, irritable, or disconnected.
Light Therapy: Using a light therapy lamp can mimic the effect of natural sunlight and help regulate mood.
Exercise: Even light activity, like walking or stretching, can boost energy levels and improve mental well-being.
Keep a Routine: Consistency with sleep, meals, and daily habits provides structure during the darker months.
December is also Read a New Book Month, making it the perfect time to settle in with a story, explore a new genre, or discover an author you’ve never tried before.
Reading isn’t just fun—it’s mentally nourishing. It can:
Whether it’s fiction, biography, self-help, or poetry, the goal is simply to enjoy the journey of discovering something new.
December includes two of the most celebrated days of the year—Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve. Unfortunately, they are also among the deadliest due to impaired driving.
This month raises awareness about the importance of making safe decisions on the road, especially during holiday festivities.
Impaired driving endangers everyone. It leads to increased injuries and fatalities, with risks spiking during the holiday season.
Encourage friends and family to make responsible choices and share resources—from organizations like Youth.gov—to help spread awareness.
December is full of celebration, reflection, and transition—but it’s also a time to prioritize mental and emotional health. By understanding Seasonal Affective Disorder, embracing the joy of reading, and committing to safe holiday habits, we can finish the year stronger and more mindful.
Take care of yourself, support others, and step into the new year with clarity and intention.
