The Christmas Effect

I wish Christmas was longer. Very few things make me really happy in life, and the holiday season is one of them. I love seeing the city decorated in red, green, and white with Christmas themes. The lights and the many Christmas desserts I get to eat always brighten up my mood. There are actually studies that have been done on how our brain gets fascinated by the holiday spirit. 

The season tends to evoke many kinds of emotions within us. We experience nostalgia every year during the holidays as we listen to familiar songs, follow traditions, and indulge in peppermint and cinnamon treats. Feeling nostalgic releases oxytocin, the "love hormone," which triggers positive emotions. When we give or receive gifts, our brain releases dopamine, which is associated with happiness and makes us feel happier. During this break from school or work, many people choose to rest and relax, which can boost their overall well-being. While Christmas can have positive effects on mental health, it can also have negative impacts. It can also be a source of stress and depression for some people. Those who are missing loved ones and feeling lonely may struggle during this time. Even people who aren't experiencing the expected good mood during the holidays may also feel negative emotions. Students preparing for upcoming exams may also find this time particularly challenging as they can't enjoy the holidays.  

A lot of us have different feelings and memories attached to Christmas that make us look at the holidays in a certain way. By understanding how the holiday season impacts our mental health and why, we can enjoy it more by focusing on the positive aspects.