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This is the time of year when substance abuse tends to go up, right along with all of the holiday stresses. First Halloween, with decorating and getting ready for parties and possibly trick or treating. Next comes Thanksgiving, when many people are more focused on paying bills or getting ready for Christmas than on giving thanks for the smaller things in life and actually relaxing. In November decorations are changed, that big meal needs to be purchased and prepared, and then it is time for Christmas preparations. With all of the holiday stresses during the last few months of the year it is no surprise that substance abuse tends to happen more frequently. There are some things you can do to help prevent this though. The following tips can help!

• Do not over work yourself. Remember that there are only so many hours in each day, and do not take on more than you can competently handle.
• It is okay to say no if your plate is already full and you can not possibly be responsible for one more thing. Your friends and family will understand why you can not prepare the holiday meal this year and you let someone else take a turn.
• Turn down a party in favor of a long hot soak in the time and a good night of rest. This will lower your substance abuse risks and help you relieve some of the holiday stresses.
• Opt for soda or a sparkling water instead of an alcoholic drink once in a while.