TRICK or TREAT? Can Halloween chills bring psychological benefits?

TRICK OR TREAT? Can Halloween bring PSYCHOLOGICAL BENEFITS?

As autumn sets in and Halloween approaches, many of us eagerly anticipate the thrill of spooky delights. Last year, we Brits spent more than £400 million on Halloween, and this year’s outlay is expected to surpass that. So why do we willingly immerse ourselves in eerie tales, fright nights, and spine tingling movies?

One school of thought suggests that embracing Halloween thrills can actually alleviate stress. Dr Michele Nealon, President of the Chicago School of Professional Psychology, says that experiencing controlled scares in a safe environment can trigger the release of positive hormones. She says that rush of adrenaline, endorphins, and dopamine we experience during spooky activities can translate into feelings of euphoria, and empowerment once the fear subsides, giving us a sense of relief and wellbeing.

And according to British scientist and writer, Katharine Lang, certain types of fear may not only be enjoyable but also beneficial for us. Short term fear, she writes, experienced during Halloween thrills, can allow people to practise controlling their body’s fear response within a secure space, potentially offering psychological and health benefits.

Others support the idea that Halloween can be more of a treat than a trick. They say:

THE THRILL OF ADRENALINE:

Some of us can crave the adrenaline rush triggered by a controlled scare. Though safe, our bodies can react as if facing a real threat, creating an exhilarating experience.

CONQUERING FEAR:

By confronting frightful encounters, we may triumph over our fears in a controlled environment, and this can boost our self confidence and resilience in everyday life.

STRENGTHENING BONDS:

Shared scares with friends and family release oxytocin, fostering emotional connections and a sense of togetherness.

ESCAPING THE MUNDANE:

Halloween’s spooky escapism may offer a refreshing break from daily routines that can encourage new forms of self discovery.

Halloween’s spooky escapism may offer a refreshing break from daily routines that can encourage new forms of self discovery.

CATHARSIS AND STRESS RELIEF:

Confronting fear may allow for tension release that could lead to feelings of contentment as worries fade away.

TESTING LIMITS:

Scary experiences can sometimes challenge our imagination and emotional boundaries, leading to personal growth and self understanding.

Confronting fear can boost confidence.

LIGHT IN THE DARKNESS

According to a recent survey Halloween can be a source of anxiety for young children. Approximately 68 per cent of parents admitted that their little kids are frightened by Halloween, with spooky masks (51 per cent), creepy monsters (48 per cent), and scary decorations (44 per cent) being the primary culprits.

So it may be good to know that some Christian churches are offering an alternative approach to the traditional spooky celebrations by organising “light parties” that incorporate games, fancy dress, and party food to present a more upbeat and positive atmosphere.

“Light parties” aim to attract non churchgoers, especially children, and provide a safer and more controlled environment than traditional trick or treating. Some churches use Halloween as an opportunity to promote All Saints’ and All Souls’ days, helping children come to terms with death and overcome their fears in a constructive manner.

Embracing Halloween thrills can actually alleviate stress.

Boo! Age appropriate Halloween TV and movies –like Scaredy Cats and The Curse of Bridge Hollow (pictured below) from Netflix or The Muppet’s Haunted Mansion from Disney+ may come in handy for a family friendly movie night.

STOP THE STIGMA

Over the years supermarkets and Halloween event organisers have come under fire for offering Halloween costumes and attractions that mock people dealing with mental health issues or illness. Politician Norman Lamb has spoken out, “Everyone should be able to enjoy Halloween but I urge all retailers to behave more responsibly –don’t demonise mental illness.”

And the Zero Suicide Alliance have worked with leading UK events organisation Corporate Entertainment Professionals (CEP) to tackle the potentially lethal effect of stigmatising language in addressing mental health issues.