Corey’s Perspective: Screaming, Smiling, and Healing
“I’ve always had a passion for horror. There’s something enchanting about the adrenaline rush that comes when the music intensifies, the shadows loom, and the monster finally appears. But horror isn’t solely about jump scares and eerie creatures. It’s about catharsis. Watching horror films allows us to confront our fears and anxieties in a safe way, providing a strangely satisfying sense of relief once the credits roll.
Horror movies are like emotional rollercoasters. They create a sense of danger without real threat, enabling us to face our fears in a controlled setting. When you see Laurie Strode outsmart Michael Myers or Danny Torrance escape the Overlook Hotel, you’re not just witnessing fictional characters conquer evil—you’re subconsciously working through your own challenges.
Research supports this idea. Studies indicate that horror can aid in stress relief, emotional regulation, and even foster connections with others. Consider how many times you’ve snuggled under a blanket with friends or held onto your partner during a tense scene. That’s bonding through fear—and it’s a beautiful thing.
For me, horror was a lifeline during difficult periods. After losing loved ones, I found comfort in films like The Babadook, where grief takes on the form of a monster. It reminded me that I wasn’t alone. That’s why Kendall and I launched Horror Heals, to delve into how this genre not only frightens us but also facilitates healing.”
Kendall’s Take: Horror Movies Are a Safe Space for Us “Weirdos”
“When I was a child, horror wasn’t something I paid attention to. My parents didn’t watch many scary films, and I didn’t sneak late-night viewings of Friday the 13th. But as I grew older, I discovered that horror was more than just blood and screams—it became a refuge for people like me.
One of the positive aspects of watching horror movies is how they validate being ‘different.’ Horror protagonists often begin as outsiders—the nerdy kid, the misunderstood outcast, the grieving parent. They’re us. But by the end, they’re survivors. Watching these stories unfold reminds us that it’s okay to feel like an outsider because even outsiders can be heroes.
Take Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein, for example. That story has resonated with people for over 200 years because it speaks to feelings of rejection and loneliness. Horror characters like Frankenstein’s monster or Carrie are mirrors for our struggles. When we see them persevere, it inspires us to do the same.
Horror also provides a safe space for us to confront uncomfortable emotions. Feelings like anxiety, fear, and sadness can often feel overwhelming in real life. However, in horror movies, these emotions are externalized. The creeping dread of a ghost or the sudden shock of a slasher reflects our internal struggles, allowing us to process them from a safe distance. Personally, I believe there’s strength in reclaiming fear. When life feels chaotic or uncertain, horror films remind us that we can confront the monster and emerge victorious.”
Shared Reflection: Community Through Horror
One of the most surprising positive effects of horror is the community it fosters. At conventions, online forums, or even in the comment sections of spooky TikToks, horror enthusiasts come together to share their passion for the macabre.
Corey: “I’ll never forget the first time I saw someone light up while discussing their favorite horror movie at a convention. They were shy and hesitant at first, but as soon as we started geeking out about The Texas Chainsaw Massacre, you could see their confidence blossom. Horror connects us because it’s a universal experience. Everyone has something they fear, but when we share those fears, they lose their grip on us.”
Kendall: “That sense of belonging is what we aim to cultivate with Horror Heals. Guests on the podcast often share how horror helped them discover their community. Whether it’s through watching scary films or dressing up as their favorite villain, horror offers a way for people to express themselves and feel acknowledged.”
This genre embraces imperfection. It’s messy, raw, and unapologetically strange—just like life. Through its narratives, we find not only entertainment but also empathy.
Science Supports It
For those who seek more than just personal stories, research backs up the benefits of horror. Watching scary films can:
Reduce Stress: The adrenaline surge from a jump scare is followed by a release of dopamine, leaving you feeling relieved.
Boost Immunity: Yes, yelling at a zombie can actually give your immune system a boost, thanks to the body’s fight-or-flight response.
Strengthen Relationships: Snuggling up during a horror movie fosters shared experiences and builds trust.
Enhance Mental Resilience: Confronting fictional fears can make it easier to handle real-life challenges.
Embrace the Fear
Corey: “Horror isn’t merely about surviving the night; it’s about thriving in the face of darkness. It’s a genre that communicates, ‘You’re not alone. Your fears are valid, but they don’t define you.’ Whether you’re a long-time enthusiast or a newcomer exploring the genre, give horror a chance to reveal its gentler side.”
Kendall: “So, the next time someone wonders why you enjoy horror, you can explain that it’s not solely about the frights. It’s about the healing. Horror teaches us that the monsters — both on screen and within ourselves — can be confronted and overcome. And that’s a lesson worth shouting about.”
