Navigating Post-Horror Fear: Strategies to Overcome Nightmares and Night Terrains

Why are we discussing horror, growing up, and fear? Because these topics transcend mere entertainment—they reflect our deepest fears and anxieties, often magnified in the shadows of the night. The world has always been a mysterious and potentially dangerous place, and the human psyche can sometimes struggle to differentiate between actual threats and imaginative fears.

The issue at hand, however, is not just about the surface level thrill and excitement we derive from experiencing horror. For many, the aftereffects can be profound and debilitating. The following strategies are designed to help you navigate the fear that lingers after immersing yourself in the world of horror, ensuring that any fears you face are manageable and eventually overcome.

Start Small: Gradual Exposure

One of the most effective ways to gradually diminish your fear of horror is to start with small, less-threatening entries into the genre. This could mean starting with a movie like A Quiet Place, which provides a mix of suspense and thriller elements without the jump scares and overt supernatural occurrences prevalent in more traditional horror films. Alternatively, you might opt for a show like I Am Not Okay with This, a dark fantasy series that can be a gentle introduction to the genre.

Another approach is to look for parodies and campy re-imaginings of popular horror films. These can provide a humorous perspective on familiar characters and scenes. For instance, watching The Merkins’ parodies of Freddy Krueger and Leatherface can make these characters seem less intimidating. Similarly, remakes and reinterpretations of classic horror movies can offer exposure to the content in a non-threatening way.

Watch Parody Videos: Laughter is the Best Medicine

Parody videos and revenge parodies can be a fantastic tool for viewers who struggle with lingering fear. Take the example of The Merkins, a YouTube channel known for creating satirical music videos that put a humorous spin on horror movie classics. Once you have watched a few of these parodies, you may find that characters you once found terrifying are now merely amusing.

Another approach is to watch comedy parodies of horror movies. For instance, the imitation of Michael Myers stripping and singing a George Michael song in a Halloween parody can make the character seem ridiculous and less scary. These parodies can be found on platforms like Vine, YouTube, and other social media channels dedicated to pop culture parodies.

Do Your Research: Knowledge Is Power

The more you understand about the mechanics, storytelling, and production of horror movies, the less intimidating they tend to become. Delving into the behind-the-scenes details, trivia, and the psychological aspects of horror can help you see these films as more of a constructed narrative rather than a reality.

Books, articles, and scholarly papers can provide a deeper understanding of the psychological elements that make horror so effective. You can also dive into the history of horror, exploring why certain elements became common in the genre and the cultural and societal factors that influenced these choices.

In addition, discussions about the movies with friends or on forums can offer different perspectives and insights. Understanding the creative process of filmmakers and actors can help demystify the works that once frightened you.

Conclusion

The lingering fear after watching or playing horror can be overwhelming, but with the right strategies, you can manage it effectively. Start small, incorporate humor through parody videos, and arm yourself with knowledge about the genre. By employing these methods, you can regain your confidence, ensuring that your fear does not hinder your enjoyment of other activities or your daily life.

Remember, it's perfectly normal to feel scared after watching or playing horror. The key is to find ways to manage and reduce that fear, allowing you to continue enjoying the genre without letting it control your life.