Seasonal Depression and Christmas Music

How Christmas Music can be a positive impact on mental wellbeing.

The countdown to Christmas – many people would associate this exciting time of year with shopping for gifts, cosy evenings indoors, and spending time with family and friends. For others, not so much. The depression starts to creep in similar to how the days become darker earlier.

According to the NHS, seasonal depression, also known as seasonal affective disorder (SAD), is a type of depression that is linked to the change of seasons. For many, winter is a common season associated with the disorder.

Although there is not an exact cause for SAD, during winter, the cloudy days and limited sunlight may lead to a lower levels in serotonin (also known as 'the happy chemical' in the brain). This can cause symptoms such as; persistent low mood, loss of interest in hobbies and everyday activities, and feeling lethargic. For some, these symptoms can have a significant impact on everyday life.

As well as this, the pressure of Christmas can be challenging for some. Christmas shopping for loved ones can be financially difficult, as well as the social pressure of visiting family and friends can be a physically exhausting experience.

However, studies show that listening to Christmas music can have a positive impact on mental wellbeing by alleviating stress.

Typically, Christmas music is nostalgic - it brings back warm memories from the past. When listening to this music, the brain releases endorphins (a hormone released in the brain to reduce pain and stress) and temporarily uplifts mood.

A great example of this is the glorious 2003 single Christmas Time (Don’t Let The Bells End) by hard rock band The Darkness. A festive song filled with grand falsettos and classic rock guitar riffs, as well as being accompanied by a music video featuring a singing toy robot and plenty of shiny pleather flared trousers. The rock band’s Christmas song is, quite simply, bonkers (in the best way possible) and cannot help but put a smile on your face.

On the contrary, Christmas music may bring back memories that are difficult to process. By listening to sad Christmas music, the rhythm as well as the lyrics help to understand negative emotions associated with the festive season, and can also improve mental wellbeing.

Released in December 1974, Lonely This Christmas by glam-rock band Mud captures Christmas blues perfectly - dealing with heartbreak around the festive period and 'emptiness and loneliness, and an unlit Christmas tree.'

Christmas can be overwhelming, uplifting, bittersweet - or all of these things at once. So, as the festive season unfolds, let Christmas music be whatever you need it to be. Whether it is listening to something that is relatable, or a comforting song that oozes festivity, choosing the right music can support your wellbeing during these darker months. No one has to go through the festive period alone.