Researchers say Christmas music and stress don't mix

Christmas music is meant to be uplifting, but it can have a dire impact on some.

Clinical psychologist Linda Blair said Christmas music can be mentally draining:

"People working in the shops have to tune out Christmas music because if they don't, it really does stop you from being able to focus on anything else... You're simply spending all of your energy trying not to hear what you're hearing."

Singer Michael Buble's "Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas" topped the list of the most streamed songs.

According to Spotify listening spikes during the last two months of the year. Michael Buble's "Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas" and Bing Crosby's "White Christmas" topped the list of the most streamed songs.

Researchers said the incessant repetition can have a psychological impact: There's a U-shaped relationship between how often we hear a song and how much we like it, called the mere exposure effect.

At first, holiday music may spark nostalgia and get you into the holiday spirit. But they said hearing "Jingle Bells" for the millionth time can lead to annoyance, boredom, and even distress.

Researchers feel this happens because the brain becomes oversaturated, triggering a negative response. If you're already worried about money, work, or seeing family during the holidays, the constant inundation of cheerful tunes may reinforce your stress instead of relieving it.

It can also be downright distracting, affecting productivity and irritating consumers. A 2011 Consumer Reports survey found that 23 percent of Americans dread holiday music.

Women dressed in traditional costumes sing Christmas carols as they gather to celebrate the Orthodox Christmas at a compound of the National Architecture Museum in Kiev, Ukraine, January 7, 2016.

Doctors suggest switching up music playlist so people’s brains don't get bored. They said playing the same Christmas songs all season long produces cognitive fatigue

Studies also show that wintry scents like pine and cinnamon help conjure happy emotions. Including these in your holiday festivities may counter the Christmas music effect while celebrating.

(CGTN)