Horror Films and Mental Health: Do People with Anxiety Disorders Watch Them?

From Psycho to Get Out, horror films have captivated audiences for decades. But what about people with anxiety disorders? Does watching horror films exacerbate their symptoms or do they enjoy them just like anyone else? To understand the complexities of this question, it's crucial to first clarify the different types of mental health disorders and recognize the unique experiences of individuals.

Types of Mental Health Disorders

Mental health disorders are diverse and numerous. There are over 200 different types, ranging from mood disorders (such as depression and bipolar disorder) to personality disorders and anxiety disorders. When discussing anxiety disorders specifically, it's important to consider the various subtypes, including generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), panic disorder, social anxiety disorder, and others. Each type presents its unique challenges and implications.

Can People with Anxiety Disorders Watch Horror Films?

The idea that someone with an anxiety disorder cannot enjoy horror films is a common misconception. Similar to asking whether a deaf person can read, being affected by an anxiety disorder does not eliminate the possibility of watching certain horror films. Anxiety disorders impact mental health but do not inherently prevent individuals from engaging with a variety of different content, including horror films.

Personal Experiences

For instance, I personally have ADHD and anxiety, both of which are often considered minor mental health disorders compared to more severe conditions like borderline personality disorder (BPD) or schizophrenia. Despite these diagnoses, I love horror films and consider them my favorite genre. My best friend, who has bipolar disorder, OCD, and depression, shares a similar passion for watching horror movies, even those that might trigger her. These examples highlight that the ability to watch horror films is highly individual and not determined by the severity of a mental health condition alone.

Exceptions and Personal Preferences

Like any genre of film, horror films can have different levels of intensity. While some individuals with anxiety disorders might enjoy fictional horror films, others might find them too distressing. For example, movies like House of 1000 Corpses are generally acknowledged as works of fiction, which can be accepted more easily by those with anxiety disorders. However, the mere mention of certain content can trigger anxiety in some individuals, even if the film itself is fictional.

Additionally, some horror films might delve into sensitive topics, such as sexual assault (SA). For individuals with anxiety disorders, exposure to content related to SA can be particularly challenging. While the film might be fictional, the emotional impact on those with anxiety disorders can be substantial. Personal preferences and individual thresholds for these types of content play a significant role in determining whether one can enjoy horror films.

Watching Horror Films in Mental Health Facilities

Even individuals who are hospitalized for extended periods due to mental health issues can engage with horror films. My best friend, who was hospitalized for a short period due to multiple mental health disorders, was still able to watch movies, despite the sensitive nature of the content. When she was discharged, she watched many horror films with me.

It's important to note that having a mental health disorder does not preclude someone from watching certain forms of media. The ability to engage with horror films is largely determined by personal comfort levels and the specific content of the film.

Conclusion

Yes, people with anxiety disorders do watch horror films, and many even love them. Whether or not a person with an anxiety disorder can enjoy horror films depends on individual preferences, the severity and type of their anxiety, and the specific content of the film. Just as mental health disorders do not eliminate the possibility of enjoying a wide range of media, they also do not prevent individuals from watching horror films if they so choose.

These insights are based on personal experiences, but it's always a good idea to discuss individual preferences and boundaries with those close to you. If you have questions about how various mental health disorders interact with media consumption, consider asking on platforms like Quora or consulting with mental health professionals.