You can also check the rating or parental guidance section on most film websites to prepare you for particularly scary scenes. If you enjoy the thrill of not knowing what comes next, avoid reading the full synopsis beforehand. Instead, check the rating or parental guides to decide whether you can handle the scary moments.
If this method helps you cope best, avoid movies that claim they are “based on a true story. " Try reading movie reviews or a “Behind the Scenes” video of the movie to remind yourself that it’s fictional.
Most horror movies contain frightening scenes, but avoid movies that you think could negatively affect you for more than a few hours.
Try to talk to a friend who is comfortable with, or even enjoys, horror movies. Expressing your fears to someone who also is afraid of scary movies might worsen your concerns. Talking with a friend who loves horror movies can also help you see what makes watching scary movies enjoyable.
If you have to watch the movie in a theater, choose a seat near the exit so you can sneak out if you feel overwhelmed. Watching the movie in a theater, however, can be fun if you want to immerse yourself in the horror movie experience if you don’t typically get scared.
If you’re watching a horror movie at night, turn on a few lights in a nearby room to make the atmosphere feel less scary. Avoid watching scary movies before you go to bed, as you may be more likely to have nightmares or struggle with insomnia. [7] X Research source Watching a horror movie at night, however, can be fun if you enjoy feeling frightened while watching scary movies. [8] X Research source
If you’re watching the movie with a friend, ask beforehand if you can hold their hand during the scary parts as reassurance.
If you have to watch the movie by yourself, try to watch it when others will be home. Having other people nearby can help you feel less afraid. Invite friends who enjoy scary movies to create a light, fun atmosphere and help you feel more excited to watch it.
Crunchy foods, like veggies, chips, or cookies, are especially useful for calming your nerves because they can prevent you from being mentally absorbed in the movie.
If the movie has an evil clown, for example, try to picture the clown slipping on a banana peel. Share your humorous thoughts with your friends if all of you are scared to keep the atmosphere light and comfortable.
Try looking for small details that shows you the movie is fake, like a supposedly “dead” body breathing or the shadow of a microphone. Let your friend know if you’re scared so they can give you reassurance or remind you that it’s fake. [13] X Trustworthy Source National Health Service (UK) Public healthcare system of the UK Go to source
If you still want to know what’s going on but feel afraid, try lowering the volume instead of muting it.
You could also leave the room for a few minutes and take a breather, then come back when you’re ready to watch it again. If you don’t want to watch the movie anymore, there’s no shame in turning it off or leaving the room until it’s over. [16] X Research source
