Q&A for How to Get a Scary Movie Off Your Mind

Just leave the room if you know it will affect you negatively. You're only hurting yourself if you stay and watch.

Tell them these movies really make you uncomfortable and ask for their help. Swap out some comedy for the scary movies. Invite a friend to watch non-scary movies with you away from the family. Practice knowing this is not real - it's a movie. Learn strategies for rescuing yourself from real-life dangerous situations - this will help you not feel so vulnerable. You don't say how old you are, but if you're a kid, tell a parent that this isn't funny - it really bothers you. Good luck.

Pretend like you're a scary monster, even scarier than whatever has you spooked. That scary thing should be scared of YOU. This goes for anything. Dark stairway? You're the darkest most terrifying stairway ever to be seen. You'll feel big and strong, and maybe even make yourself laugh from how silly this is.

Try to watch something else before you go to bed so that you will be thinking of that instead. If possible, watch an hour or so of a cartoon or a relaxing show that you like.

Time is a cure for almost everything. You will just have to wait it out. But, if you are desperate enough, stay distracted and talk to someone about something else.

Just relax, take a deep breath and watch a calming, peaceful, funny or regular, non-scary show or video.

Unfortunately, there isn't much you can do to get an image out of your head, but keeping yourself distracted and blocking out the image as much as you can is the best you can do. If it still bothers you, talk to someone.

Try to distract yourself with something more pleasant, like a different movie.

Yes, they should. Try reading a different book that really interests you so you'll forget about the scary one.

Are you scared of a specific scenario happening to you, or are you just creeped out by an image that's stuck in your mind? Try to apply some common sense to your fears. Remember that you are just as safe as you were before you saw the scaring thing, and that most scary situations from movies, books and other media are very unlikely. Some events are even impossible in real life. Don't focus on the situation too much, but don't try to ignore it completely; instead, just tell yourself that some things are scary, but just because they freak you out doesn't mean that they are anything to worry about.

Take a deep breath and tell yourself, "Even if this is real, could it happen to me?" Remind yourself that things that may seem possible, like someone dangerous coming into your house or a shark attack almost never, ever happen.

Explain to your teacher that you don't feel comfortable watching the film. They might be able to adjust the situation to suit your needs. If you still have to watch the movie, just remind yourself that nothing in it affects your life. You are still safe. Talk to someone you trust about your worries if they persist, or visit your school's counselor. There are also many online services for young people's mental health; you can chat with them about your fears, and they may be able to help.

You should have closed your eyes and taken off the headphones.

It sounds like you're still feeling scared after seeing the white lady in the picture. It’s okay to feel this way, but remind yourself that what you're seeing isn't real. Ghost stories and images like that are fictional and designed to scare, but they can't hurt you. To calm yourself, focus on something that makes you feel safe, like listening to music or doing something comforting. You can also turn away from the image if it makes you uncomfortable. Talking to someone about how you're feeling can also help. Over time, the fear will fade.

If a scary tune is stuck in your head, try listening to or singing a different song to replace it. Distract yourself with activities you enjoy, like reading or watching something light. Taking deep breaths can help calm your mind, and talking to someone about it might make you feel better. The tune should fade over time.

It sounds like you're feeling uncomfortable and scared, and your feelings should be respected. You can try talking to your dad about how these movies make you feel and explain why they scare you. It's okay to set boundaries and ask for a change in what you're watching. Suggest movies you enjoy or feel comfortable with. If your dad insists on watching scary movies, discuss finding a balance between his preferences and your comfort. Communication is key in situations like this.

If you're scared after seeing scenes from a movie without watching the full film, remind yourself that it's just a part of a fictional story. Focus on things that make you feel safe, like being in a well-lit area or engaging in comforting activities. Distracting yourself with a favorite show, music, or talking to someone can help take your mind off the scary scenes. If the scenes stick with you, it might help to talk about your feelings with someone.

Try doing something relaxing like watching a funny video or listening to calm music to shift your focus. Engage in light activities like reading, drawing, or playing a less intense game, and keep the lights on for a more comforting atmosphere. Calming routines like deep breathing or stretching can also help ease tension. Remind yourself it was just a game and not real. If you're still scared, talk to someone about it—it can help to share your feelings.

You can keep your closet open and remind yourself that the chances of someone getting in there are very low, especially if you haven't left the room. Horror movies are just acting, so whatever you saw was most likely fake, even if it says based on a true story. You and your closet will be okay. There's nothing inside besides your clothes and shoes.

Try to replace anxious thoughts with more rational ones. The chance of someone staring at you as soon as you close your eyes is very low. Create a mental image of a calming place and allow yourself to relax. If none of that works, imagine the person is someone you want to stare at you, like a crush or a celebrity. If it still doesn't work, consider talking to someone or seeking therapy.

Remind yourself that you are safe and the probability of the ghost visiting you is very low. Try to distract yourself from these thoughts by watching or reading something uplifting.

Try watching or reading something happy, or engage in an activity you enjoy. If it's really distressing, consider talking to an AI, like ChatGPT, Google Gemini, or Microsoft Copilot about it.

Remind them that the probability of their fear happening is very low. Ask about what they saw and reassure them it won’t happen. Engage them in activities they enjoy or watch something they like together.

Try reading a good book or watching something you enjoy, or engage in an activity you like.

Try distracting yourself by reading, watching, or doing something you enjoy. Talking to someone about it might also help.

You should talk to your doctor about this issue, as they can usually help. Avoid watching scary movies until you understand why your anxiety is so severe.

Consider watching a funny movie or even having a funny movie marathon to help calm yourself.

Yes, try watching something happy, reading something you enjoy, or talking to someone about it.

Try talking to someone about it, reading a good book, or watching your favorite TV show or movie. Remind yourself that the probability of it happening is very low and that you are safe.

Remind yourself that it's not real and the probability of it happening is very low, or try distracting your mind.