There is a category of ‘haters’ that onyl awakens at a certain time of the year. He doesn’t act on social media,but in the real world,and in the sights of these ’haters’ there is something that on the surface could hardly be detestable: the magic of Christmas. the mistletoe, the trees to decorate, the colored lights, the scent of ginger and cinnamon, the sweet songs and even more so the family reunions: everything that for the vast majority of the population is a source of joy and comfort causes them a rejection, a real allergy. I am the victims of the ‘Grinch syndrome’named after the famous furry, gruff and solitary creature who tries to extinguish the spirit of Christmas and boycott the holidays, born from the pen of the US writer and cartoonist, Dr. Seuss.
The Grinch syndrome, he explains to Adnkronos Salute Claudio Mencaccico-president of the Italian Society of Neuropsychopharmacology (Sinpf) and director emeritus of Psychiatry at the Asst Fatebenefratelli-Sacco in Milan, “is precisely connected to this aversion, this negative aspect of rejection towards all the Christmas holidays”.How to live with it? The psychiatrist’s message is clear: “You don’t have to love Christmas – he reassures - but you can deal with those “negative” feelings in a more positive and constructive way.Then, there are those who don’t go as far as being a ‘Grinch’. But the idea of taking care of yourself a little, of managing yoru stress, of making your own Christmas, personalizing it and giving it your own values, this certainly makes it much more acceptable and tolerable.”
What exactly is Grinch syndrome and how is it seen by others? “It basically comes from the idea of someone who is envious of Christmas, who would like to somehow steal the joy of this holiday. In reality – Mencacci points out – the first issue to keep in mind is that not everyone loves Christmas” and this must be respected. And then it must be considered that ”they are there different reasons“which can fuel this syndrome, “and range from some more biological ones – we remember people who suffer from seasonal depression, linked to the reduction of sunlight, so they are not well in this period – up to reasons linked to social pressure for purchases, gifts , both consumption and social comparison participations, therefore” linked to “expectations”, explains the expert.
Then, continues Mencacci, “there are all those people who have family conflicts, which can flare up during parties”. For them, the combination of “dinner on the 24th and lunch on the 25th December becomes a matter of having to face situations of grate tension or the rekindling of tensions or conflicts”. Another driver of the aversion to Christmas can be that of “painful memories, of people who are no longer here, who have left us”. And, the list continues, ”let’s also think about separated people who in certain specific cases might potentially be experiencing this moment badly. let’s not forget those who have economic problems and those who are alone”. in fact, on those festive days, “loneliness is accentuated. as you can see,there are many elements that can trigger a sense of annoyance about the holidays,and of great social pressure and stress”.
A varied people,therefore,that of the grinches. “Personality also has an impact: those who are more inclined to cynicism, as well as the hypercritical rather than the pessimist, certainly do not experience the climate of enthusiasm and sometimes somewhat forced joy of the Christmas holidays well. I – continues the psychiatrist – I have several people who come to my studio, who choose to leave a day or two before Christmas, precisely to avoid” all that rituality, “that overlapping of family meetings, forced holidays and so on”. Grinches on the run, who “plan a more or less long journey, with the necessary days” to get through the holidays.
There is no data that captures the dimensions of the problem, the expert specifies. “This is not a ’medical’ or pathological condition,it is a state of mind,certainly widespread”,which also intersects with other problems. How to interface with this segment of the population? “Cultivate whenever possible kindness and gratitude can make a difference”, assures Mencacci. Also because the Grinch is not always a ‘convinced hater’ of Christmas, sometimes he is one out of necessity. “so if you have a neighbor and you have the impression that he is alone, when in doubt a ring the bell and wish him a Merry Christmas. At most he will grimace like the Grinch”, or a little warmth could be what he needs to warm his heart. “You also have to make an effort in front of those who are not so happy at the moment – reflects the specialist – And even people who experience this time of year as a great effort or in a sorrowful,grumpy rather than cynical way,have the right to go through it as they see fit.” A final message is also for the Grinches themselves: “We must give ourselves the right to don’t celebrate,to also accept your own feelings – concludes Mencacci – You don’t love Christmas,don’t force yourself to participate. Obviously, it should be added: this doesn’t mean he ruins Christmas for others.”
What are the common psychological signs associated with Grinch Syndrome during the holiday season?
interview: Understanding the Grinch Syndrome with Dr.Claudio Mencacci
Time.news editor: Welcome, Dr. Mencacci! it’s a pleasure to have you with us today.As the holiday season approaches, many feel the joy that accompanies it, but others experience a different reaction. Could you explain to us what you call the ‘Grinch Syndrome’?
dr. Claudio Mencacci: Thank you for having me! The ‘Grinch Syndrome’ refers to a specific aversion that some people feel towards the holiday season.Much like the character from Dr. Seuss’s beloved story, individuals experiencing this syndrome may feel a deep-seated rejection of anything associated with Christmas—the lights, the gatherings, the music. For them, this time of year can be overwhelmingly negative rather than joyful.
Time.news Editor: That’s fascinating. You mentioned that people with this syndrome may not act on social media but rather express their feelings in real-world interactions. How does this affect their relationships during the holidays?
Dr. Claudio Mencacci: That’s a great question. Often, individuals with Grinch Syndrome might find themselves feeling isolated or at odds with those around them. Since they may not vocalize their feelings online, it can lead to misunderstandings with friends and family, who might see their behavior as ungrateful or unkind. This unexpressed turmoil can result in a sense of loneliness or frustration, especially during a season that emphasizes togetherness.
Time.news Editor: You emphasize that it’s okay not to love Christmas. What advice do you have for those who struggle with the pressure to conform to holiday cheer?
Dr. Claudio Mencacci: Exactly! My message is that you don’t have to love Christmas to navigate it successfully. It’s important to acknowledge those feelings rather than suppress them. by personalizing the holiday—finding ways to make it meaningful to you, whether by setting boundaries or creating new rituals that reflect your values—you can transform the experience from a chore into somthing more tolerable. It’s about self-care and managing your stress during this busy period.
Time.news Editor: That sounds like a healthy approach. You also mentioned that not everyone needs to go as far as identifying with the Grinch to feel stress associated with the holidays. What are some common signs that someone might be struggling?
Dr. Claudio Mencacci: Absolutely. Many people experience heightened anxiety and stress during this time. Signs may include irritability,withdrawal from social activities,or feeling overwhelmed by expectations. The key is to notice these feelings and take proactive steps to address them. This could involve seeking support from loved ones or even professional counseling if needed.
Time.news Editor: How can family and friends support someone who might be experiencing Grinch Syndrome or holiday stress?
Dr. Claudio Mencacci: Interaction is vital. Encourage open discussions about how each person feels regarding the holidays. Validate their feelings and offer options that allow the person to participate on their own terms. Sometimes,suggesting smaller gatherings rather of large celebrations can make a meaningful difference. Remember,it’s about creating a space where everyone feels comfortable and valued.
Time.news Editor: Thank you,Dr.Mencacci, for your invaluable insights. As we head into the holiday season,it’s important to remember that joy looks different for everyone.
Dr. Claudio Mencacci: Thank you for the platform! I hope that everyone can find their own version of joy this holiday season, embracing what feels right for them.