Here’s a bold statement: decorating for the holidays earlier than usual might just be the mental health boost you didn’t know you needed. But here’s where it gets controversial—while many swear by the tradition of waiting until after Thanksgiving to deck the halls, a growing number of people are breaking the mold and embracing the festive spirit sooner. And mental health experts say this trend could be more than just a passing fad—it might actually be good for you. Let’s dive into why.
For generations, the unspoken rule in many American households has been to hold off on holiday decorations until the turkey leftovers are gone. But this year, more folks are itching to bring out the Christmas trees, menorahs, and twinkling lights earlier than ever. And this is the part most people miss—this shift isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about emotional well-being. Take, for example, the story of an Ohio woman who, in the midst of the 2020 pandemic, put up her decorations the day after Halloween. She told Cleveland.com, ‘2020 was filled with so much darkness, stress, and uncertainty. I needed something to lift my spirits, and I knew others did too. So, I turned on my lights—not just for me, but for anyone who might pass by and feel a little less alone.’
Psychologist Melissa Robinson-Brown explains, ‘People are craving joy and happiness, especially after such challenging times.’ And she’s not alone in this observation. Ryan Howes, another psychologist, encourages, ‘Drop the judgment. If decorating early brings you joy, go for it—no matter what the calendar says.’
So, what are the mental health benefits of this early festive fervor? Let’s break it down.
1. It’s a Nostalgic Mood Booster
Decorating your home with holiday trimmings can transport you back to happier times. The sight of a twinkling tree or the scent of pine might evoke warm memories of childhood holidays, creating a sense of comfort and joy. As psychologist Erlanger Turner puts it, ‘Positive imagery can help reduce stress and anxiety. Decorations act as triggers for happy memories, promoting a sense of joy and warding off sadness.’ And don’t forget the power of scent—lighting a cinnamon-scented candle or opting for a real tree can amplify those feel-good vibes.
2. It’s a Healthy Escape from Reality
Let’s face it—the world can feel overwhelming. While it’s important to process difficult emotions, constantly dwelling on negativity isn’t healthy. Decorating early offers a constructive distraction, a way to shift your focus from the chaos of the news cycle to something uplifting. Robinson-Brown notes, ‘It’s a pleasurable activity that helps break the cycle of anxiety and depression.’
3. It Gives You a Sense of Control
In a year where so much has felt out of our hands—political unrest, global crises—decorating your home can be a small but powerful way to reclaim agency. Howes explains, ‘Focusing on what you can control, like creating a cozy home environment, can reduce feelings of helplessness.’ It’s a reminder that even in turbulent times, you have the power to create pockets of peace and joy.
4. It Builds Anticipation for Brighter Days
In a year dominated by uncertainty, looking forward to something positive has been a rare luxury. But decorating early can spark excitement for the good times ahead—holiday movies, baking cookies, or simply enjoying time off. Howes adds, ‘The holidays offer a shift from dread to anticipation, and that’s something we all need right now.’
But here’s the counterpoint—decorating early isn’t for everyone. For some, the holidays are a painful reminder of loss or difficult memories. Psychologist Rebecca Leslie cautions, ‘If decorations trigger stress or sadness, forcing the festive spirit might do more harm than good.’ The key, experts agree, is to listen to your own needs. Whether you dive headfirst into the holidays, skip them entirely, or find a middle ground, the most important thing is to honor what feels right for you.
So, as you ponder whether to dust off those decorations early this year, ask yourself: What do you need right now? And don’t be afraid to challenge the status quo. After all, as Howes puts it, ‘Learning to pursue what truly feeds our souls is one of the greatest gifts we can give ourselves.’
Now, we want to hear from you—are you team ‘decorate early’ or do you prefer to stick to tradition? And do you think the mental health benefits outweigh the potential downsides? Share your thoughts in the comments—let’s keep the conversation going!
