Boo & Brains: How horror movies affect our mental health ?
*Eerie music plays in the background.* It was during May 2025, and instead of binge-watching funny sitcoms, there was a person who could not stop watching horror movies, one after another. Days turned into months, but their habit continued! Meanwhile, something was happening in their mind because of the excess amount of horror movies that were being seen: a mix of fear, anxiety, and something deeper. So, join me as we take a closer look at the mental health of individuals like this. And a reminder: be cautious as you walk, because you never know what, or who, might be lurking around the corner 😉…
If you prefer a mix of screams and good sleep, then do yourself a favour, and do not indulge yourself in a "horror movie marathon”, because if you do, well, I am not going to say more, but instead will show you the after effects of it:
Horror movies = Sleepless nights:
You watched a horror movie for the plot, and guess what? You finished right before bedtime. Well, surprise! Not only will you struggle to sleep now, but there’s something more to consider. Here’s what causes those sleepless nights: when we finish watching a horror movie, our bodies remain in a heightened state filled with adrenaline, fear, muscle tension, and, most importantly, an increased heart rate. During this time, our bodies can’t even digest food properly, let alone sleep peacefully! So, what do you think? Are you still planning on watching that horror movie before bed?
2. Horror movies + Anxiety + Panic attacks not a good combination:
If you have been clinically diagnosed with Generalized Anxiety Disorder or Depression, watching horror movies for extended periods can worsen your condition. This occurs because jump scares in these films serve as stress-inducing stimuli. Such moments can create a sense of loss of control, which may lead to an increase in the frequency of nightmares you experience.
3. Reinforcement of harmful behavior ?
This was something I was considering as well. However, according to a study conducted in the 2000s
https://www.humapub.com/admin/alljournals/gmcr/papers/xFc88IkFQ7.pdf, it was noted that excessive viewing of horror or violent movies can normalise violent behaviours, even if just for a short time, and push individuals to these extremes.
4. Distorted perception of the world:
Imagine a child watching several horror movies, either back-to-back or at regular intervals. Children are more susceptible to the influences of these fictional scenes compared to adults. This exposure can shape their perception of the world, leading to confusion about how to recognise and respond to danger, as well as how to process feelings of fear. In some cases, this can even trigger anxiety, fear, and panic.
Although research is ongoing regarding the "Impact of horror movies on one's mental health," there are several key points that have emerged. I would love to hear your thoughts on this topic, whether you are a horror movie viewer or a blog reader. This might even be the perfect opportunity for someone to start research on this less-explored subject! In the meantime, please take care of yourselves, you wonderful human beans!
