December Awareness Month

Year-End Reflection & Gentle Goal Setting: Closing 2025 With Clarity and Care

Posted on by Miasha Wilson

As the year winds down and winter settles in, many people feel a natural pull toward reflection. The end of the year offers a meaningful opportunity to pause, take stock of what we’ve experienced, and create space for intentional beginnings. Gentle goal setting—rooted in self-awareness rather than pressure—can help support emotional well-being, resilience, and a sense of grounded direction as we move into 2026. Below are a few approachable practices to help guide year-end reflection in a mindful and compassionate way.

What to Release From 2025

Reflection often begins not with what we want, but with what we’re ready to release. Letting go can include habits, mindsets, patterns, or emotional burdens that no longer serve our well-being. This could mean releasing unrealistic expectations, overcommitment, or the belief that productivity defines worth. It may also involve acknowledging mistakes, forgiving ourselves, or letting go of unfinished goals that no longer align with who we are.

Releasing is not about perfection or erasing the past—it is about creating space. This gentle step helps us enter the new year with more clarity and less weight, allowing new intentions to take root.

What Restored You This Year

While much attention goes to challenges, it is equally important to recognize moments of resilience and restoration. Consider the experiences, people, or practices that helped you feel grounded in 2025. Perhaps it was a morning walk, a supportive conversation, a creative hobby, or time spent with loved ones. Reflecting on what restored you highlights the life-giving parts of your year—those moments that replenished energy, sparked joy, or offered comfort during stressful times.

These restorative elements can serve as guideposts for how to nurture yourself in the year ahead. They remind us that well-being is often built from small, intentional moments of care.

Five-Minute End-of-Year Check-Ins

Reflection doesn’t require long journaling sessions or elaborate planning. Even five minutes of intentional check-in can provide clarity. A simple structure might include:

  • What am I proud of from this year?
  • What challenged me, and what did I learn from it?
  • What mattered most to me in 2025?
  • What do I want more—or less—of in the coming year?

These quick reflections can be done weekly, at the end of each workday, or whenever you feel the need to recenter. Gentle check-ins help cultivate self-awareness without overwhelming time commitments.

Choosing a Word or Theme for 2026

Rather than creating rigid resolutions, many people find meaning in selecting a word or theme to guide the new year. A theme acts as a compass—broad enough to be flexible, but specific enough to provide direction. Examples might include “Growth,” “Balance,” “Clarity,” “Courage,” or “Restoration.”

Your word can inform decisions, help set boundaries, and inspire new habits. It becomes a grounding reminder of the intention you want to carry forward.

A Thoughtful Start to a New Year

Year-end reflection offers a moment to honor where you’ve been and envision where you’re going. When approached gently, without pressure or self-judgment, it can support emotional well-being and create a meaningful foundation for personal and professional growth in 2026.

To help start the new year with intention, all staff are invited to join our January 5th Mindful Monday session at 8:00 a.m.: “Intentional Start – Guided Journaling to Welcome 2026”

Held in Hicks Banquet Room East and West, this session will provide a calm, supportive space to reflect, set gentle intentions, and begin the year with clarity and purpose. No prior journaling experience is needed—just bring yourself and a willingness to pause and reflect.

References
  1. American Psychological Association. (2023). Managing stress and building resilience. https://www.apa.org/topics/stress
  2. Greater Good Science Center. (2023). The science of reflection and intentional living. University of California, Berkeley. https://greatergood.berkeley.edu
  3. Harvard Health Publishing. (2024). Mindfulness, self-reflection, and emotional well-being. Harvard Medical School. https://www.health.harvard.edu

Nutritional Wellness for Low-Energy Months: Supporting Your Body Through Winter

Posted on by Miasha Wilson

As winter settles in and daylight hours grow shorter, many people notice a natural dip in energy, motivation, and overall mood. Colder temperatures, limited sunlight, and the fast pace of the academic year can all influence how we feel. While there is no one-size-fits-all approach to nutrition, gentle, non-diet strategies can help support well-being during the darker months. Small, sustainable habits can boost energy, promote comfort, and help us stay nourished throughout the season.

Foods That Support Winter Energy

During winter, many individuals experience changes in appetite and energy levels. Incorporating steady sources of fuel throughout the day can help maintain focus and keep energy levels more stable. Complex carbohydrates—such as whole grains, beans, lentils, and root vegetables—digest more slowly and provide a sustained release of energy. Pairing these foods with a source of protein or healthy fats, such as nuts, seeds, yogurt, or eggs, can help keep you feeling satisfied and grounded.

Warm, seasonal foods like oatmeal, soups, roasted vegetables, and stews can also offer both nourishment and comfort. The goal is not to follow restrictive rules, but to explore what foods help you feel your best during this time of year.

Hydration Reminders

Hydration can be easy to overlook in the winter months, especially when cold weather reduces thirst cues. Yet staying hydrated supports concentration, digestion, and overall energy. Warm beverages—herbal teas, warm lemon water, or broths—can be especially soothing and count toward daily hydration. Keeping a reusable water bottle nearby at work is a simple way to encourage consistent sipping throughout the day. Even mild dehydration can contribute to fatigue, so gentle reminders can make a meaningful difference.

Balancing Comfort Foods With Nourishment

Winter often brings a natural desire for cozy, familiar foods. Comfort foods play a valuable emotional role, offering warmth, tradition, and pleasure. Instead of thinking in terms of “good” or “bad” foods, consider how comfort foods can coexist with nourishment. For example, pairing a favorite winter dish with a colorful side, adding vegetables to a stew, or enjoying a warm baked treat alongside a protein-rich snack can help create balance without restriction.

This approach emphasizes flexibility and self-awareness—not dieting. It encourages honoring cravings while also noticing which foods help sustain energy, mood, and overall well-being.

Bringing Warm Meals and Snacks to Work

Preparing warm, satisfying meals and snacks can make a winter workday feel more grounding and enjoyable. Options like soups, chilis, curries, baked potatoes, casseroles, and warm grain bowls travel well and reheat easily. Snacks such as warm apples with cinnamon, oatmeal cups, hard-boiled eggs, mixed nuts, or whole-grain muffins can provide quick boosts of energy.

If your department or team frequently eats lunch at their desk, taking a few minutes to warm a meal and sit mindfully can help break up the day and support both physical and emotional wellness. Small routines—such as packing a thermos or prepping meals in batches—can help reduce decision fatigue and create a sense of comfort during the busiest parts of the semester.

Nourishment as Self-Care

Winter can be demanding, and nutritional wellness is just one tool for supporting your body during this time of year. Listening to your hunger cues, honoring your need for warmth and comfort, and choosing foods that help you feel nourished can contribute to steadier energy and improved well-being. Gentle, compassionate nutrition practices can help you move through winter with more ease, resilience, and balance.

References
  1. Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. (2023). Winter nutrition and hydration tips. https://www.eatright.org
  2. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2024). Water and hydration: Why it matters. https://www.cdc.gov/nutrition
  3. Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health. (2023). Healthy eating plate & winter nutrition strategies. https://www.hsph.harvard.edu/nutritionsource

Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) & Light Exposure Wellness: Supporting Well-Being During Michigan’s Darker Months

Posted on by Miasha Wilson

As winter settles in and daylight hours grow shorter, many people in Michigan begin to feel the effects of reduced sunlight. With sunrise arriving late and sunset coming early, the lack of natural light can influence mood, energy levels, and overall well-being. Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)—a form of depression that follows a seasonal pattern—is more common in northern states like ours. Recognizing the signs and taking simple preventive steps can help support a healthier, more balanced winter season.

Recognizing Symptoms of SAD

Seasonal Affective Disorder can manifest in subtle ways at first, and many individuals may dismiss symptoms as “the winter blues.” Common signs include persistent low mood, decreased energy, difficulty concentrating, changes in sleep patterns, and increased craving for carbohydrates. Some people may also experience irritability or social withdrawal. Because these symptoms can overlap with general stress or fatigue, awareness is key. SAD is a legitimate, well-documented mental health condition, and individuals who notice prolonged symptoms should consider seeking guidance from a qualified medical or mental health professional.

Gentle Morning Light Routines

Light plays a powerful role in regulating circadian rhythms—the internal clock that influences sleep and mood. During winter months, integrating gentle morning light exposure can help signal to the body that the day has begun. This might include opening blinds immediately upon waking, spending a few minutes near a bright window, or taking a short walk outdoors when possible. Some individuals explore the use of light therapy lamps, which are designed to mimic natural daylight; however, anyone considering a therapeutic light device should consult their healthcare provider to determine whether it is appropriate for them.

Movement + Sunlight Breaks

Even brief exposure to natural light can have positive effects on mood and alertness. Incorporating movement breaks throughout the day—especially outdoors—can provide both light exposure and a boost in circulation. A 10–15 minute midday walk, standing near a window during a break, or choosing a well-lit space for work or study can collectively support energy levels. Michigan’s intermittent winter sunshine may be short-lived, but taking advantage of those moments can help counteract the effects of reduced daylight.

Vitamin D Awareness

Reduced sunlight also means many individuals produce less vitamin D in winter, since the body synthesizes it when the skin is exposed to UVB rays. Low vitamin D has been associated with fatigue, low mood, and bone health concerns. It’s important to note that information about vitamin D is general education—not personal medical advice. Anyone concerned about their vitamin D levels or considering supplements should consult with their healthcare provider, who can assess individual needs and recommend appropriate options.

Creating a Supportive Winter Wellness Routine

While winter brings natural challenges, intentional habits can help maintain physical and emotional well-being. Light exposure, movement, social connection, hydration, and adequate sleep all play important roles. Checking in with oneself, seeking support when needed, and cultivating small daily wellness practices can make the winter months more manageable and, in many cases, more enjoyable.

Kalamazoo College employees also have access to confidential support through our Employee Assistance Program (EAP). The EAP offers free short-term counseling, wellness resources, and guidance for managing stress, seasonal changes, or other personal concerns. These services can be especially helpful during the darker months when emotional well-being may require additional attention. More information is available on the HR website, and employees are encouraged to use these resources whenever extra support might be beneficial.

References
  1. American Psychiatric Association. (2023). Seasonal affective disorder. https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/depression/seasonal-affective-disorder
  2. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2024). Vitamin D: Fact sheet for consumers. https://www.cdc.gov/nutrition
  3. National Institute of Mental Health. (2023). Seasonal affective disorder. https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/seasonal-affective-disorder

Winter Safety & Campus Preparedness: Staying Safe During the Cold Season

Posted on by Miasha Wilson

As temperatures drop and winter weather settles over campus, safety becomes a shared responsibility. Snow, ice, and rapidly changing conditions can create hazards for students, faculty, and staff alike. By understanding common winter risks—and taking simple steps to prepare—we can reduce injuries, prevent accidents, and ensure our campus community remains safe and operational throughout the season.

Safe Winter Walking

One of the most common winter hazards is icy walkways. Even with timely snow removal and salting, surfaces can refreeze overnight or remain slick in shaded areas. The safest approach is to adopt a “walk like a penguin” strategy: keep your center of gravity over your feet, take short, deliberate steps, and keep your hands free for balance. Wearing appropriate footwear with good traction is also an essential preventive measure. If you identify untreated icy spots, report them promptly to Facilities so they can be addressed quickly.

Car Safety & Emergency Preparedness

For community members who commute, winter travel introduces an additional layer of risk. Preparing your vehicle for winter conditions can significantly improve safety. Basic recommendations include maintaining proper tire pressure, keeping the gas tank at least half full, and ensuring that windshield washer fluid is rated for freezing temperatures. Drivers should also keep a winter emergency kit in their car. Items such as blankets, a flashlight, a small shovel, ice scraper, booster cables, and non-perishable snacks can make a critical difference if stranded during severe weather. These precautions not only protect the driver but also reduce strain on local emergency services.

Recognizing Frostbite & Hypothermia

While many people limit their time outdoors in the winter, exposure to extreme cold still presents a risk. Knowing the early signs of frostbite and hypothermia can help prevent severe injury. Frostbite often begins with numbness, tingling, or pale, waxy skin—usually on extremities like fingers, toes, ears, and the nose. Hypothermia, which occurs when body temperature drops below 95°F (35°C), can present as shivering, confusion, slowed speech, or clumsiness. Anyone experiencing these symptoms should seek warmth immediately and, if necessary, request medical assistance. Quick recognition and response can prevent long-term damage.

Slip-and-Fall Prevention

Slip-and-fall injuries are one of the most frequent workplace and campus incidents during winter. These injuries not only impact the health and well-being of community members but also represent a significant liability risk for institutions. Prevention is a shared effort: Facilities works diligently to clear walkways, but individual choices matter too. Planning extra time to reach your destination, avoiding shortcuts through unmaintained areas, using handrails, and wearing appropriate footwear can reduce the likelihood of falls. Indoors, wiping shoes upon entry helps prevent wet floors that may cause slips.

A Campus-Wide Commitment

Winter safety requires awareness, preparation, and cooperation. By understanding risks and adopting simple preventive measures, we help ensure a safer environment for everyone on campus. As we move deeper into the season, your vigilance and proactive steps make a meaningful difference.

References
  1. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2024). Cold stress: Prevention and treatment. https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/topics/coldstress/
  2. National Weather Service. (2023). Winter safety tips. https://www.weather.gov/safety/winter
  3. Occupational Safety and Health Administration. (2023). Winter weather: Plan, equip, train. U.S. Department of Labor. https://www.osha.gov/winter-weather

Community Kindness & Restorative Connection: Strengthening Workplace Well-Being at Year’s End

Posted on by Miasha Wilson

As the year winds down, we find ourselves balancing competing demands—final projects, student needs, family obligations, and the emotional intensity that often accompanies the holiday season. December offers a unique opportunity to intentionally cultivate a sense of community through kindness and restorative connection. These practices are not simply “feel-good” additions to the workplace; they meaningfully support emotional well-being, collaboration, and resilience.

Kindness Impacts Mood and Stress Regulation

Kindness, whether expressed through words, small actions, or recognition, has a measurable impact on mood and stress regulation. Research shows that engaging in or receiving small acts of kindness activates areas of the brain associated with reward and bonding, increasing feelings of social connection and reducing stress responses (Curry et al., 2018). In a higher-education environment—where workloads fluctuate dramatically depending on the point in the academic calendar—a culture that encourages kindness can act as a buffer against burnout and isolation.

The Benefits of Restorative Connection

Restorative connection builds upon these benefits by emphasizing intentional, relationship-centered interactions. This concept stems from restorative practices, which prioritize empathy, understanding, and meaningful dialogue. In the workplace, restorative connection may look like taking a few moments to check in with a colleague, offering appreciation for their work, or creating space for employees to share thoughts and challenges without judgment. Even brief interactions grounded in empathy and acknowledgment strengthen team cohesion and psychological safety—two elements closely linked to our satisfaction and likelihood of remaining engaged within our work community (Edmondson, 2019).

Use Holiday Season to Prioritize Restorative Connections

The end of the year is an ideal time to prioritize these practices because people naturally begin reflecting on their experiences, accomplishments, and difficulties. Kindness and restorative connection invite a sense of shared humanity, reminding us that we are part of a supportive community rather than facing challenges alone. This can be especially meaningful in a small liberal arts college environment where collaboration and connection directly influence the overall campus culture.

Practical Tips for the Workplace

Practical ways to cultivate community kindness and restorative connection in December include:

  • • Expressing appreciation for a colleague’s work, even in small ways. (Consider sending a Kudos!)
  •  Checking in with coworkers who appear overwhelmed or unusually quiet.
  • Offering help during end-of-year deadlines or heavy student-service periods.
  • Sharing positive feedback from students or other departments.
  • Participating in voluntary community events, such as gratitude walls, small cards of encouragement, or wellness events.

These actions not only benefit others but also support the giver. Research indicates that practicing kindness increases personal well-being, enhances mood, and strengthens overall life satisfaction (Aknin et al., 2020). When woven into our workplace culture, this becomes a shared cycle of support and encouragement.

Conclusion

Ultimately, community kindness and restorative connection remind us that wellness is not solely an individual undertaking. It is also a collective practice that sustains teams, strengthens relationships, and fosters a healthier, more compassionate work environment. As we close the year, choosing kindness becomes an intentional act of care—both for ourselves and for the people we work alongside each day.

References

  1. Aknin, L. B., Whillans, A. V., Norton, M. I., & Dunn, E. W. (2020). Happiness and prosocial behavior: An evaluation of the evidence. World Happiness Report, 2020, 97–112.
  2. Curry, O. S., Rowland, L. A., Van Lissa, C. J., Zlotowitz, S., McAlaney, J., & Whitehouse, H. (2018). Happy to help? A systematic review and meta-analysis of the effects of performing acts of kindness on the well-being of the actor. Journal of Experimental Social Psychology, 76, 320–329.
  3. Edmondson, A. C. (2019). The fearless organization: Creating psychological safety in the workplace for learning, innovation, and growth. Wiley.

HR Buzz: Raising Awareness for National Influenza Vaccination Week (December 6–12)

Posted on by Miasha Wilson

National Influenza Vaccination Week (NIVW) is a crucial event held annually from December 6 to 12, designed to raise awareness about the importance of flu vaccination. Sponsored by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), this observance serves as a reminder that it’s never too late to get a flu shot and helps to ensure that people remain informed about flu prevention, especially during the peak of flu season.

The Importance of Flu Vaccination

Flu vaccines are among the most effective tools in preventing the spread of seasonal influenza. According to the CDC, flu vaccination significantly reduces the risk of getting the flu, as well as the severity of illness for those who do contract it (CDC, 2024). While the flu can affect anyone, certain groups are at higher risk for serious complications, including young children, older adults, pregnant women, and individuals with chronic health conditions such as asthma or heart disease. For these populations, the flu can lead to severe outcomes, including hospitalization or even death (CDC, 2024).

Overcoming Vaccine Hesitancy

Despite the clear benefits of vaccination, many people remain hesitant or uncertain about getting the flu shot. The CDC reports that in recent flu seasons, the vaccination rate among Americans has been less than optimal. While some individuals avoid the vaccine due to misconceptions, such as fears of getting sick from the shot or beliefs that the vaccine is ineffective, the reality is that the flu vaccine is both safe and beneficial. Research has consistently shown that flu vaccines are designed to protect against the strains of the virus most likely to circulate each season, which helps reduce overall flu-related illnesses and hospitalizations (CDC, 2023).

Flu Vaccination for Community Health

During NIVW, the CDC emphasizes the importance of vaccination not just for personal protection but also for community health. Getting vaccinated helps protect those who are unable to get vaccinated themselves, including infants too young to receive the vaccine or people with certain health conditions. By promoting herd immunity, widespread flu vaccination contributes to fewer outbreaks and less strain on healthcare systems, especially during the winter months when hospitals are already dealing with a variety of illnesses.

Educational Campaigns and Resources

Another key aspect of NIVW is its focus on education. The CDC collaborates with healthcare providers, schools, workplaces, and local organizations to spread information about the benefits of flu vaccination. Through various campaigns and resources, they seek to reach individuals in diverse communities to provide facts about the flu vaccine’s safety and effectiveness. Social media platforms, public health websites, and community outreach programs help spread messages about how individuals can easily get vaccinated at local clinics, pharmacies, or doctor’s offices.

The Role of Vaccination in Public Health

As the COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted, vaccination plays a pivotal role in managing public health crises. The flu vaccine’s effectiveness has also been proven through extensive data, showing that flu vaccination reduces the risk of spreading influenza by up to 60% (Grohskopf et al., 2023). With the ongoing challenges posed by respiratory illnesses, including COVID-19, it is more important than ever to encourage flu vaccination to avoid the compounding effects of multiple illnesses during the winter months.

Conclusion

In conclusion, National Influenza Vaccination Week serves as an important opportunity for public health organizations and individuals to promote flu vaccination and encourage those who have not yet been vaccinated to do so. By educating the public and emphasizing the personal and community benefits of vaccination, we can reduce flu-related illnesses and protect vulnerable populations. The flu vaccine is a safe and effective tool that plays a vital role in safeguarding both individual and public health. I encourage everyone to take part in this important campaign, educate themselves on the facts about flu vaccination, and join the discussion on how we can continue to improve public health efforts during the flu season.

References

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2023). Influenza (flu) vaccination: The best way to prevent flu. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/flu/prevent/index.html

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2024). National Influenza Vaccination Week (NIVW). Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/flu/resource-center/nivw/index.html

Grohskopf, L. A., Sokolow, L., & Wright, R. (2023). The effectiveness of influenza vaccination in the prevention of seasonal flu. Journal of Public Health, 47(2), 127-134.

HR Buzz: This December, Let’s Put the Brakes on Impaired Driving

Posted on by Miasha Wilson

December is Impaired Driving Prevention Month, a critical time to shine a spotlight on the dangers of driving under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or any substance that impairs the ability to operate a vehicle safely. This month serves as an important reminder to not only raise awareness about the risks of impaired driving but also to encourage responsible behavior, promote safe practices, and support efforts to reduce impaired driving-related accidents and fatalities.

The Impact of Impaired Driving

Impaired driving is a significant public health and safety issue that affects people of all ages and backgrounds. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that every day in the United States, 28 people lose their lives in crashes involving alcohol-impaired drivers, equating to one fatality every 52 minutes (NHTSA, 2023). Furthermore, it is estimated that nearly 300,000 people drive under the influence of alcohol each day, yet fewer than 4,000 are arrested for impaired driving (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention [CDC], 2023).

While alcohol is often the primary substance associated with impaired driving, drugs — both prescription and recreational — are a growing concern. According to the NHTSA, drugged driving now accounts for more than 16% of all fatal crashes in the U.S. (NHTSA, 2023). These drugs include marijuana, opioids, prescription medications, and other substances that can impair a driver’s judgment, coordination, and reaction time.

The consequences of impaired driving extend beyond just fatalities. Injuries caused by impaired driving crashes can have long-lasting physical, emotional, and financial repercussions for victims and their families. In 2020 alone, nearly 400,000 people were injured in crashes involving alcohol-impaired drivers (CDC, 2023). The impact is felt not only by those directly involved in accidents but also by their communities, healthcare systems, and workplaces.

Why Impaired Driving Prevention Month Matters

Impaired Driving Prevention Month is an opportunity to take action, raise awareness, and encourage safe behaviors. The campaign’s focus is on reducing alcohol- and drug-impaired driving through education, enforcement, and community involvement. With the holiday season in full swing, there is a heightened risk of impaired driving due to celebrations and social gatherings, making it even more critical to address this issue during December.

Key Strategies for Preventing Impaired Driving
  1. Education and Awareness: One of the most effective ways to prevent impaired driving is through education. By informing the public about the dangers and consequences of driving under the influence, we can empower individuals to make safer choices. Public awareness campaigns, such as “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over,” encourage people to plan ahead by using designated drivers, taxis, or ride-sharing services. Promoting the idea that impaired driving is preventable and that every driver has the responsibility to stay sober behind the wheel is vital in creating safer communities.
  2. Designated Drivers and Safe Rides: One of the most straightforward and effective prevention strategies is to encourage the use of designated drivers. Whether it’s a friend or family member who stays sober to drive others home, or using services like Uber or Lyft, ensuring there’s a plan for getting home safely is crucial. Having a designated driver can save lives and prevent unnecessary tragedies.

It is also important to support individuals who may be struggling with alcohol or drug use. Providing access to treatment, support groups, and counseling services can help prevent impaired driving and support individuals in overcoming substance abuse issues.

3. Zero Tolerance for Driving Under the Influence:

Many states have implemented stricter laws and zero-tolerance policies to combat impaired driving. These laws make it clear that driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is not only dangerous but illegal. For example, the legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit in most states is 0.08%. However, even lower levels of alcohol or drug impairment can be dangerous, and there is no safe threshold for driving while impaired.

4. Workplace Safety Programs:

Employers play an important role in impaired driving prevention, especially in industries where employees drive as part of their job. Companies can implement safety programs that educate employees about the dangers of impaired driving and promote alternative transportation options for employees who may be impaired after work events. Additionally, workplaces can foster a culture of responsibility by encouraging employees to never drive under the influence and to report unsafe driving behavior when observed.

How Employees Can Get Involved

As we observe Impaired Driving Prevention Month, employees are encouraged to take action in their communities and workplaces. Here are a few ways to get involved:

Share Your Story:

If you or someone you know has been affected by impaired driving, sharing personal stories can be a powerful way to raise awareness.

Promote Designated Driving:

Encourage colleagues and friends to plan ahead for safe transportation during the holiday season. Consider organizing a designated driver program within your workplace or a group initiative to promote the use of ride-sharing services.

Participate in Awareness Campaigns:

Many organizations and local government agencies run awareness campaigns during December to educate the public about impaired driving. Employees can participate in or support these initiatives by volunteering, sharing information on social media, or hosting educational events.

Advocate for Change:

If you are passionate about reducing impaired driving, consider advocating for stricter laws or more public safety initiatives in your community. Supporting local legislation that focuses on impaired driving prevention can make a long-term impact.

Conclusion

Impaired Driving Prevention Month is an important time to reflect on the dangers of driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. By raising awareness, encouraging responsible behavior, and supporting efforts to prevent impaired driving, we can make a real difference in saving lives and protecting communities. Employees are encouraged to share their own stories and experiences with impaired driving or its impact, as we work together to create a safer environment for all.

References

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). (2023). Impaired driving. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/

National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). (2023). Traffic safety facts: Alcohol-impaired driving. Retrieved from https://www.nhtsa.gov/