Christmas Dinner Stress: Understanding Misophonia’s Impact

For many, Christmas dinner is a time for joy, laughter, and indulgence. Yet, for those living with misophonia, the holiday can turn into a source of significant stress and discomfort. Misophonia is a condition where specific everyday sounds—especially those produced by eating, drinking, or movement—trigger intense emotional reactions such as anger, panic, or disgust.

A 2023 study by researchers from King’s College London and the University of Oxford revealed that nearly one in five people in the United Kingdom experience misophonia at a level that significantly disrupts their daily lives. Alarmingly, the study also found that most individuals affected by this condition are unaware of its existence. According to Dr. Silia Vitoratou, the lead author of the study, “Only 14% of those deemed highly affected by misophonia had heard the term before.”

Misophonia can develop in anyone, regardless of age, gender, or cultural background. However, it often manifests during the early teenage years. Lottie Doyle, a 23-year-old who has lived with the condition since she was 16, expressed that while she anticipates spending time with family this Christmas, she knows that the only way to cope during the holiday meal is by using earplugs.

“I get this feeling of sudden panic, my whole body will just tense up and it feels like I’m in danger, and I need to somehow control these noises,” Doyle elaborated. She continued, “There are so many different triggering sounds at Christmas, and that can be anxiety-inducing and make you dread it.” Although her family is understanding, she feels a constant struggle to balance her own well-being with ensuring others feel comfortable.

Misophonia is not life-threatening, but it can significantly affect mental health, relationships, and overall quality of life. Severe cases may provoke intense emotional and physical responses, including fight-or-flight reactions, as noted by the Cleveland Clinic. While there is no definitive cure for misophonia, therapies that address related conditions such as anxiety or obsessive-compulsive traits can help individuals manage their symptoms.

Emerging research suggests that misophonia may be connected to variations in brain structure and heightened neural responses to sound. Factors such as genetics and other neurological conditions may also contribute to its development.

Despite the isolating nature of this disorder, studies indicate that individuals with misophonia are not alone in their experiences. Increasing awareness and understanding from family and friends, coupled with practical coping strategies, can transform social events like Christmas into more manageable experiences. By fostering an environment of empathy and support, those affected by misophonia can find ways to navigate the challenges of holiday gatherings without compromising their well-being.