Experts Say Putting Up Christmas Decorations Earlier Could Make You Happier

It seems to get earlier and earlier each year - much to the annoyance of a load of us - but maybe we'd all be a damn sight happier if we put our Christmas decorations up now.

Well, that's what one psychoanalytical expert believes, anyway.

Yes, while many of you will be wincing and shaking with rage at the very idea of getting the baubles and bells out in September, it could actually give you a bit of a mental boost, if Steve McKeown is to be believed.

McKeown is the owner of The McKeown Clinic, and he reckons that those who put their decorations up earlier are having the laugh last over the Scrooges who wait until later.

The theory is that those who get involved in the Christmas spirit earlier enjoy the festive period for longer.

Now, that makes sense, but surely there is a limit, right?

McKeown told UNILAD: "In a world full of stress and anxiety people like to associate to things that make them happy and Christmas decorations evoke those strong feelings of childhood.

"Decorations are simply an anchor or pathway to those old childhood magical emotions of excitement.

"So putting up those Christmas decorations early extends the excitement."

McKeown isn't the only one who thinks that this could help people's mental health.

Amy Morin, a psychotherapist and the author of 13 Things Mentally Strong People Don't Do told the same publication: "The holidays serve as a reminder of when a loved one was still alive.

"Or maybe looking at a Christmas tree reminds someone of what life was like when they still believed in Santa.

"For people who have lost a loved one, it may serve as a reminder of happy times they had with that person.

"Decorating early may help them feel more connected with that individual."

But wait, there's more.

Putting up loads of garish Christmas decorations may actually be a sign that you're a nicer person, too.

A study published in the Journal of Environmental Psychology states: "A main effect for the decorated factor indicated that raters used Christmas decorations as a cue that the residents were friendly."

So, why not get yourself started? After all, the shops have already started to stock festive gear, and the mince pies will go out of date before the big day.

Stick on some Wizzard and stop wishing that it could be Christmas every day, because maybe it can.

Featured Image Credit: New Line Cinema

Topics: Science, Christmas, Weird

Tom Wood

Tom Wood is a LADbible journalist and Twin Peaks enthusiast. Despite having a career in football cut short by a chronic lack of talent, he managed to obtain degrees from both the University of London and Salford. According to his French teacher, at the weekends he mostly likes to play football and go to the park with his brother. Contact Tom on [email protected]

@TPWagwim