How to Deal with Fear of the Supernatural

Ah, the supernatural. Ghosts, ghouls, things that go bump in the night… it’s enough to make even the bravest among us sleep with a nightlight. But fear not, dear reader, for I’m here to help you navigate the shadowy corners of your mind and find a way to coexist with those spooky anxieties. You see, we’ve all been there. That prickle on the back of your neck when you’re home alone, the sudden chill in the air, the feeling of being watched… it’s enough to send shivers down your spine. And let’s be honest, our imaginations can be our own worst enemies, conjuring up images of shadowy figures and things that go bump in the night.

But here’s the thing: fear of the supernatural is incredibly common. We’re bombarded with scary stories, creepy movies, and local legends that make our skin crawl. It’s perfectly natural to have a healthy dose of fear towards the unknown. After all, our ancestors relied on fear to survive. Imagine you’re a cavewoman (or caveman!), and you hear a rustle in the bushes. Is it a saber-toothed tiger? A hungry bear? Better to be safe than sorry and hightail it out of there, right? That “fight or flight” response is hardwired into our DNA.

But when that fear starts to control your life, preventing you from enjoying a walk in the woods at twilight or keeping you from getting a good night’s sleep, it’s time to take action. So, put on your detective hat, grab your flashlight (and maybe a cuddly toy for comfort), and let’s explore those spooky anxieties.

1. Shine a Light on Your Fears

Just like those spooky shadows in your room disappear when you switch on the light, your fears often lessen when you examine them closely. What exactly are you afraid of? Is it the classic ghost, draped in white and moaning mournfully? Or perhaps you’re more concerned about demonic possession, like something out of “The Exorcist”? Maybe it’s the creepy crawlies, the spiders and snakes that seem to have an extra dose of “ick” factor when you think about them in the dark.

Once you pinpoint your fear, you can start to challenge it. Think of it as a research project. Head to the library or dive down the internet rabbit hole and learn everything you can about your fear. Read up on the history of ghost stories, watch documentaries about paranormal investigations, or explore the cultural significance of different supernatural creatures. You might find that your fear stems from misunderstandings or cultural myths. Knowledge is power, my friend, and it can be a powerful weapon against fear.

2. Laughter is the Best Ghostbuster

Remember that time you were a kid and scared of the dark, but then your dad made a silly face and all your fear melted away? Humor is a fantastic antidote to fear, even for us grown-ups. When you find yourself getting spooked, try to find the absurdity in the situation. Picture a ghost tripping over its own sheet, a vampire struggling to open a can of tomato juice (those fangs get in the way!), or a werewolf with a bad case of fleas. Sometimes, a little laughter is all you need to break the tension and remind yourself that things aren’t always as scary as they seem.

3. Build Your Fortress of Solitude (But Make it Cozy!)

Your home should be your sanctuary, a place where you feel safe and secure. But how can you relax when every creak of the floorboards sounds like footsteps and every shadow seems to hold a hidden monster? It’s time to reclaim your space! Make sure your bedroom is a calming and peaceful haven. Invest in some blackout curtains to banish those eerie shadows, snuggle up in cozy bedding, and maybe even add a white noise machine to drown out any unsettling sounds. And hey, if a Himalayan salt lamp or a few crystals make you feel more grounded, go for it! The goal is to create an environment where you feel safe and relaxed.

4. Phone a Friend (or a Therapist)

We all need a little help sometimes, and there’s no shame in reaching out for support. Talk to your friends, family, or even a therapist if your fear is becoming overwhelming. Sometimes, just voicing your fears out loud can take away their power. Plus, your loved ones might have some helpful advice or coping mechanisms to share. And if you feel like your fear is significantly impacting your daily life, a therapist can provide you with tools and strategies to manage your anxiety.

5. Join the “Scaredy-Cat Club” (It’s More Fun Than It Sounds!)

Here’s a secret: millions of people around the world share your fear of the supernatural. You are not alone in this! There are online forums, support groups, and even ghost hunting clubs where you can connect with others who understand what you’re going through. Sharing your experiences, swapping spooky stories, and even going on ghost hunts together can help you face your fears in a supportive and fun environment. Who knows, you might even make some new friends who share your passion for the paranormal!

And finally, remember this: most of the time, the things that go bump in the night are just the house settling, the cat knocking something over, or the wind whistling through the trees. So take a deep breath, relax, and try to enjoy the thrill of the unknown. After all, life is too short to be spent cowering under the covers!

Image Credits: BaedonWebZine