Why do Anxious People Love Horror and True Crime Podcasts?

While horror movies have always had a place in pop culture, the popularity of true crime podcasts has soared in the past decade or so. A large portion of those who listen and watch report having generalized anxiety. On the surface, this doesn’t seem to make sense- why would someone who is anxious want to scare themselves?

The answer is not simply morbid curiosity; watching scary flicks can actually help us learn to better regulate our emotions and anxiety. While watching or listening we typically:

·      Regularly take deep, measured breaths

·      Remind ourselves that it is fake or in the past

·      Take breaks if it gets too intense

·      Have a laugh with friends

These are skills applied to everyday anxiety, that you’re already practicing just by consuming entertainment. Doing so allows our brain to recognize that the increase in heart rate and other anxiety symptoms aren’t truly harmful, and that we can handle these physical and psychological feelings.

Knowing, whether consciously or not, that you are in control is also part of the appeal. You can “live out” worrying situations without an actual threat being present. The perceived threat can also be turned off at any time.

So this Halloween season, grab your popcorn and a friend, and turn on a scary movie! Just don’t forget to work on your breathing exercises during it.

Source: https://www.mentalhealthtoday.co.uk/innovations/releasing-fear-how-horror-films-can-help-to-ease-anxiety