Feeling the holiday blues already? You're not alone! Many of us instinctively wait until after Thanksgiving to deck the halls, but what if there's a hidden benefit to getting those decorations up early? Mental health experts are saying it could be just what we need.
It's true; in 2020, amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, many found solace in early holiday cheer. One woman from Ohio, putting up her decorations right after Halloween, shared, "I need that. We all need that." She wanted to bring joy and pretty lights to herself and others.
Psychologist Melissa Robinson-Brown agrees, noting that people are yearning for happiness and joy. And as psychologist Ryan Howes puts it, "If starting your holiday season in August was your desire, go for it and feel no shame."
So, what are the potential benefits of embracing the holiday spirit early? Let's dive in:
Nostalgia and Comfort: Decorating can trigger those warm, fuzzy memories of childhood holidays. Psychologist Erlanger Turner explains that positive images can help prevent stress and anxiety. Your home becomes a cozy cue for happy memories, promoting joy and warding off sadness. And don't underestimate the power of scent! Lighting a candle that reminds you of your grandparents' fireplace or getting a real Christmas tree can do wonders for your mood.
A Healthy Distraction: The world can feel overwhelming, but decorating offers a healthy escape. Robinson-Brown points out that it provides a pleasurable activity to engage in, helping to counteract the anxiety that can come from being constantly plugged into the news.
A Sense of Control: In a world where so much feels out of our control, decorating gives us agency. You can transform your home into a haven, a cozy oasis amidst the chaos.
Anticipation and Upliftment: Looking forward to something can be a challenge. The holidays offer a shift from dread to excitement, giving us something positive to anticipate: holiday movies, festive music, delicious cookies, time off, and the joy of opening presents.
But here's where it gets controversial... While decorating early can be beneficial for many, it's not a one-size-fits-all solution. For some, the holidays may be a difficult time, especially for those with painful pasts or who are grieving. Psychologist Rebecca Leslie advises, "If decorating also triggers stressful memories, decorating sooner this year may not be beneficial."
What do you think? Are you an early decorator, or do you prefer to wait? Share your thoughts in the comments below! Do you find comfort in early holiday decorations, or do they bring up other feelings?
