Studies suggest that sad music may alleviate the impact of seasonal stress. It can offer solace, mitigate loneliness and promote good mental health by providing an outlet for processing negative emotions.
Sombre Christmas tunes may therefore resonate with those who cannot see their holiday experience reflected in the escapist fantasies of glühwein and holly. Researchers identify loneliness or “being without a family” as key contributing factors to low mood at Christmas – findings which guide my musical suggestions here.
