The Halloween season often prompts discussions about how horror films and frightful experiences affect sleep patterns and mental health. Experts suggest that intense reactions to such stimuli can lead to sleep disturbances, particularly for individuals who are already prone to anxiety or those with empathic tendencies, reports BritPanorama.
For many, the thrill of horror is counterbalanced by a troubled night’s sleep. Jennifer Mundt, a clinical associate professor at the University of Utah’s Sleep Wake Center, notes that frightening images can disrupt sleep, possibly leading to nightmares. “Our brains process emotions and memories when we’re dreaming,” Mundt explained, indicating that the residues of scary content can linger well into the night. This correlation is significant for those who engage with horror through films, haunted houses, or unsettling literature.
Pamela Rutledge, director of the Media Psychology Research Center, pointed out that individuals characterized as “sensation-seeking” might enjoy horror precisely because it offers adrenaline and novelty. Conversely, those with high levels of empathy may experience more substantial emotional distress. “Empathetic people tend to absorb the feelings, so they are likely feeling emotional distress on the part of the characters,” Rutledge elaborated.
Such emotional reactions are not confined to the viewing experience. Mundt warned that individuals experiencing trauma or those with vivid imaginations might find it even harder to disengage from the fear induced by cinematic experiences. “If you’ve had scary images in your mind that day, it’s going to try to process those while you sleep,” she added, highlighting the potential for intense dreams stemming from stressful daytime stimuli.
What makes a movie too scary for sleep?
Some people can watch horror films without experiencing any negative consequences on their sleep. For others, the threshold for fear is notably lower. Michael Grabowski, a professor at Manhattan College, studies “neurocinematics,” which examines how watching films affects our brains. He argues that horror movies function on a dual mechanism of surprise and fear, illustrating that jump scares can heighten one’s alertness, making it challenging to subsequently relax and fall asleep.
“In order to fall asleep, you want to feel like you’re in a safe spot so that you can put your defenses down,” Grabowski stated. This paradox can leave viewers oscillating between enjoying the thrill of horror and grappling with the remnant tension that it evokes in their minds.
Furthermore, the phenomenon of empathy also plays a role in the emotional impact of horror. Grabowski suggests that people who immerse themselves in the characters’ experiences may find heightened fear during frightening scenes. “This investment in the show’s personalities may contribute to my fear of scary scenes,” he noted, emphasizing the evolutionary instincts underpinning how we perceive threats in storytelling.
Getting back to sleep after a scare
While horror enthusiasts may revel in their experiences, some might need strategies to mitigate adverse effects on sleep. Experts recommend scheduling scary movie viewings for earlier in the day to allow time for relaxing activities that can help restore a sense of calm before bed. Mundt suggested activities such as exercising, watching a light-hearted film, or engaging in guided relaxation to shift focus away from anxiety following a frightful incident.
Additionally, envisioning a positive state before sleep can be beneficial. Mundt advised committing to calming practices like yoga or listening to soothing music to promote a more relaxed mental state conducive to restorative sleep. “Wind down doing guided relaxation, yoga, calming music, a pleasant book,” she recommended.
Ultimately, while some find horror cinematic experiences stimulating and enjoyable, others may struggle with the psychological aftereffects, necessitating tailored strategies for maintaining healthy sleep habits in the face of fear-inducing media. The conversation surrounding the intersection of horror and well-being continues, reminding us that understanding our emotional responses can yield insights into healthier viewing habits.
