3 Surprising Health Benefits of Watching Horror Movies

Watching horror movies might seem like an activity designed solely for thrill-seekers and adrenaline junkies. However, recent studies and expert insights suggest that indulging in this genre can offer unexpected health benefits. From boosting mental resilience to enhancing physical well-being, horror movies can contribute positively to your health in ways you might not have considered. Let's dive into three surprising health benefits of watching horror movies, as explained by experts in the field.

1. Stress Relief and Catharsis

The Science of Fear

When you watch a horror movie, your body reacts to the on-screen scares by triggering the fight-or-flight response. This response releases adrenaline, endorphins, and dopamine, which can create a rush similar to that experienced during physical exercise. According to Dr. Margee Kerr, a sociologist specializing in fear, these chemicals can lead to a sense of euphoria and relief once the movie ends. This process is known as catharsis.

Trusted Source: Dr. Kerr's insights on fear and the human body's response can be found in her book "Scream: Chilling Adventures in the Science of Fear" and through her interviews on reputable platforms like NPR and The Atlantic.

Link: https://www.theatlantic.com/health/archive/2015/10/why-people-love-to-be-scared/412462/

Emotional Release

Horror movies provide a safe space to explore intense emotions. By facing fear in a controlled environment, viewers can confront and process their own anxieties and stresses. This emotional release can be incredibly therapeutic. It's similar to the way people feel after a good cry, as the body and mind are purged of built-up stress.

Trusted Source: Clinical psychologist Dr. Mathias Clasen, who has conducted extensive research on the psychology of horror, explains that the genre can serve as a form of emotional regulation.

Link: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/scream-time/202010/the-psychology-horror

2. Improved Immune System Function

The Adrenaline Connection

Watching horror movies can give your immune system a boost. The adrenaline surge experienced during scary scenes has been shown to increase the activity of certain white blood cells, which play a crucial role in fighting infections. This temporary boost in immune function can help your body stay alert and ready to fend off illnesses.

Trusted Source: Research by Coventry University in the UK has highlighted the impact of adrenaline on the immune system, with findings published in various academic journals.

Link: https://www.coventry.ac.uk/research/

The Caloric Burn

Believe it or not, watching horror movies can also burn calories. The heightened heart rate and increased adrenaline levels cause your body to expend more energy. According to a study conducted by the University of Westminster, watching a 90-minute horror movie can burn up to 113 calories, equivalent to a 30-minute walk.

Trusted Source: The University of Westminster's study on the caloric expenditure of watching horror movies is well-documented in their research archives.

Link: https://www.westminster.ac.uk/research

3. Enhanced Mental Resilience

Building Tolerance to Stress

Repeated exposure to fear-inducing scenarios can increase your tolerance to stress in real-life situations. This concept, known as stress inoculation, suggests that regularly facing controlled doses of fear can help individuals become more resilient to unexpected stressful events. Horror movies offer a safe and manageable way to practice this.

Trusted Source: Dr. Coltan Scrivner, a researcher specializing in the study of morbid curiosity, has explored how horror movies can help build psychological resilience.

Link: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0191886920301397

Cognitive Benefits

Engaging with complex and suspenseful plots in horror movies can also enhance cognitive function. Viewers must pay close attention to details, predict outcomes, and process information quickly, which can improve cognitive agility and problem-solving skills.

Trusted Source: Cognitive neuroscientist Dr. Jeffrey Zacks has written extensively about how movies, including horror films, impact cognitive function in his book "Flicker: Your Brain on Movies."

Link: https://www.psychologicalscience.org/news/releases/how-watching-movies-affects-your-brain.html

Conclusion

While horror movies are often dismissed as mere entertainment, they offer several surprising health benefits that can enhance both mental and physical well-being. From stress relief and emotional catharsis to improved immune function and enhanced mental resilience, watching horror movies can be a valuable addition to your self-care routine. So, the next time you're hesitant to indulge in a spooky flick, remember that it might just be good for your health.