Is Horror a Health Risk?

Fall and especially October isn't just for pumpkin spice lattes and rainy days – it's spooky season! With horror movies, haunted houses and creepy decorations at an all time high, we should consider the possible health risks that come along with fear.

Fact vs. Fiction

Fact: Your body has a physical reaction when being scared.

When you're afraid or perceived to be in danger, the brain triggers a surge of adrenaline, which makes the heart beat faster and can push the body instantly into "fight-or-flight" mode. You may also start sweating, shaking and experience a tightening of your muscles.

Fiction: A heart attack can happen from a scary movie.

When you get scared, you get a rush of adrenaline. Your heart rate increases, your blood pressure rises, and you may even experience chest pains. Is it a heart attack? Mostly likely not. However, extreme fear can cause a heart attack in very rare cases.

Fact: Fear is not for everyone.

Have you noticed that some people enjoy horror films, haunted houses and spooky content, while others stay far away from it? According to some research, people may seek out horror for all sorts of reasons, such as triggering certain chemicals in their brains, to help them plan for worst case scenarios or even to practice coping strategies and control.

Fiction: There are long term effects on the body from being scared.

According to the American Heart Association, occasional rushes from adrenaline can be good for you, sometimes leading to increased cognitive function. However, the prolonged stress and an abundance of stress hormones over time can have negative effects, such as high blood pressure or anxiety.

Additionally, uncontrolled fear can disrupt lives and may result in phobias, panic attacks and post-traumatic stress disorder which may require professional help.

Whether you are a horror fan or not, you should consider the potential physical and psychological risks that happen when you indulge in fear.