Decorating early for Christmas could be a way to combat the economic blues

There’s a lot to be gloomy about as the holidays approach.

With turmoil happening around the world and an economic slump in our own backyard, you might be having trouble keeping your spirits up, but at least one psychologist says something as small as a string of lights could boost your mood.

Psychologist Dr. Keith Dobson specializes in depression and anxiety at the University of Calgary.

If you’re irked your neighbour already has a string of lights hanging up before December, take pause, he says — they might be onto something.

“I think a lot of people start to decorate right after Remembrance Day as a way of feeling good,” he said. “You know, decorating is relatively inexpensive and people probably have their decorations hidden away in boxes somewhere. So, that’s one way that you actually can celebrate the season without spending usually a lot of money.”

He says financial troubles and the busy nature of the season could get the best of you, but the key is being open and honest with your friends and family.

“If for example, you find that your finances are strapped this year, just being able to say that, and say that this is going to be a bit tighter and we’ll have to do well with less,” he explaied, adding it could lift your spirits. “Focus on activities perhaps, more than goods or services.”

He also suggests giving a different kind of gift.

“You could volunteer to spend time with your family that maybe you wouldn’t have done otherwise, or if you’re a parent, you could offer to give something as a gift of time or energy to a family member, rather than actually a product,” Dr. Dobson said.

Dr. Dobson says keep things in perspective as much as possible, and try to think about what the holidays are all about: family and sharing good times.