In a special episode of the Movie Health Podcast (Horror Movie Health), AJ & Kathryn (i.e., “We”) delved into their favourite movie genre – Horror and its unique relationship with mental well-being.
Horror movies are not everyone’s cup of tea, but for us, they hold a special place in our hearts.
We discussed how horror films can be surprisingly helpful in easing anxiety.
The thrill of fear in a controlled setting allows us to experience stress responses safely and navigate negative emotions.
Ultimately, horror movies provide a unique and entertaining way to address fears and anxieties within a safe space. They invite conversation and offer potent insights into the human psyche, making them a genre we will always return to.
In the podcast episode, we explored the therapeutic effects of horror movies and analysed how horror can serve as a medium for discussing deeper psychological themes.
The Therapeutic Impact of Horror Movies: Contrary to common belief, horror movies can positively affect mental health. Watching horror films offers a safe space to experience fear and anxiety, allowing viewers to regulate their emotions and responses. It provides an opportunity to explore dark feelings and confront inner demons, which can be therapeutic for some individuals. The thrill of the genre helps distract from real-life stressors, providing a temporary escape from anxiety.
Movies as Coping Mechanisms: Horror movies can be used as coping mechanisms for some people during difficult times. For instance, AJ found solace in horror films when dealing with anxiety, particularly finding therapeutic value in slasher movies like “Terrifier.” Kathryn also relates to the psychological power of horror movies and their impact on her as a mental health professional. Can horror films help to ease anxiety? | MHT (mentalhealthtoday.co.uk)
Exploring Themes of Grief in Horror Films: Grief is a recurring theme in horror movies, such as “Hereditary,” “The Babadook,” and “The Boogeyman.” Horror movies can serve as a vehicle for discussing profound themes, delving into complex emotions and providing a relatable experience for viewers.
Our shared love for psychological horror leads us to talk about some of our top horror movies:
AJ’s top picks
Our shared love for psychological horror leads us to talk about some of our top horror movies:
AJ’s top picks
- House of a Thousand Corpses (2003)
- The Devil’s Rejects (2005)
- Get Out (2017)
- Barbarian (2022)
- Texas Chainsaw Massacre (1974)
Kathryn’s top picks:
- House of a Thousand Corpses (2003)
- The Devil’s Rejects (2005)
- Get Out (2017)
- Barbarian (2022)
- Texas Chainsaw Massacre (1974)
- The Shining (1980)
- The Descent (2005)
- Hereditary (2018)
- The Machinist (2004)
- Texas Chainsaw Massacre (2003)
- The Orphanage (2007)
- It 1 (2017) & It Chapter Two (2019)
Horror movies are a unique genre that can positively impact mental health, providing a safe space for confronting fears and exploring psychological themes. Whether watching slasher films to gain a sense of empowerment or experiencing psychological horror for self-reflection, horror movies offer diverse benefits. They create an opportunity for engaging discussions and have the potential to be both entertaining and therapeutic. Horror films can also feature incisive social commentaries, e.g., Speak No Evil and Knock at the Cabin.
As horror enthusiasts, we hope you enjoyed this episode. Stay tuned for more intriguing discussions about movies for mental health on the Movie Health Podcast!
So next time you’re in the mood for a movie night, consider exploring the thrilling world of horror!
Art by Eddie Guy from The Year Horror Went Highbrow. (2023, March 17). W Magazine.
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