Many women describe the holiday season as “magical but exhausting.” In this episode, we break down the research behind why women carry so much mental, emotional, and physical pressure during the holidays—and how this stress impacts health, relationships, and wellbeing.

From invisible labor to cultural expectations, we explore what’s really happening beneath the festive surface. If you're feeling stretched thin, this episode gives you validation, language, and tools to protect your peace.

If this episode resonated with you, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a woman in your life who may be navigating this emotional season.

Writing, recording, and editing by me, Bethany

music by Mobygratis

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• American Heart Association (2023) – 79% overlook their own needs during the holidays

• University of Melbourne / University of Bath study – women carry ~71% of the household mental load

• Modern Health Workplace Survey – 40% of workers consider quitting from holiday burnout

• Sanford Behavioral Health – women more likely to report increased anxiety during holidays

• Oshi Health – “Holiday CEO” phenomenon and GI distress

• Caron Treatment Centers – holidays trigger anxiety and depression for ~30% of adults

• National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI): 1-800-950-NAMI

• Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741

• SAMHSA Helpline: 1-800-662-HELP

• Psychology Today therapist finder (U.S.)

• Open Path Collective (affordable counseling)

In this festive and science-backed episode, we explore why sexual interest often rises during the holiday season. From increased emotional warmth and time off work to alcohol consumption and cultural rhythms, the holidays create a unique environment that shapes intimacy. Drawing on psychological research, sexual-health studies, and global data trends, we unpack what really drives this seasonal spike — plus the risks, myths, and practical tips for joyful, consensual, safe intimacy.

Leave a review, Like, and Follow The Modern MILF Podcast on

Writing, recording, and editing by me, Bethany

music by Mobygratis

Connect with me!

IG: @modernmilfpodcast

TT: @bethany.hale.pearson

LinkTree: @modernmilfpodcast

email: lovewithbethany@gmail.com

Sources:

• Scientific Reports (2017): Global analysis of online sexual-interest peaks

• Wellings et al., Sexual Health Review (1999)

• Seasonal conception and fertility studies (2020+)

• Psychological research on collective mood + cultural rituals

• Public-health findings on holiday-risk behavior

Leave a review, Like, and Follow The Modern MILF Podcast on

Writing, recording, and editing by me, Bethany

music by Mobygratis

Connect with me!

IG: @modernmilfpodcast

TT: @bethany.hale.pearson

LinkTree: @modernmilfpodcast

email: lovewithbethany@gmail.com

Sources:

• Dutton, D. G., & Painter, S. L. — Traumatic bonding: The development of emotional attachments in battered women and other relationships of intermittent abuse. (Foundational empirical and theoretical work). ResearchGate+1

• Carnes, P. — clinical discussions on trauma bonding as a concept in abuse and addiction literature. Verywell Mind

• Van der Kolk, B. — The Body Keeps the Score — trauma’s effects on brain, body, and relationships. Bessel van der Kolk, MD.

• Gottman Institute — research on relationship stability, repair, and the importance of consistent kindness and responsiveness. Gottman Institute

• Sue Johnson, Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) — attachment-focused couples therapy emphasizing secure bonding and emotional responsiveness. Dr. Sue Johnson - Creating Connection+1

• National Domestic Violence Hotline — 1-800-799-7233 www.thehotline.org 24/7 confidential chat, text, and phone support.

• National Sexual Assault Hotline — 1-800-656-4673 www.rainn.org

• Crisis Text Line — Text HOME to 741741 Free, 24/7 crisis counseling via text.

• If outside the U.S.: Find international hotlines here: [findahelpline.com], [befrienders.org], or search “domestic violence helpline [your country].”

• Psychology Today Therapist Finder – www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists Use filters like “trauma,” “EMDR,” “somatic,” or “attachment-focused.”

• Trauma-Focused Organizations:

  • TherapyDen.com – filter by trauma or relationship expertise.

  • The Gottman Institute – tools for relationship health: www.gottman.com

  • Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) directory: www.ptsd.va.gov