Autumn is known for its colorful fall foliage, pumpkin spice lattes, apple picking, and Halloween. The tradition of this holiday originated in Europe as All Hallows Eve, or Samhain, over 2,000 years ago. It is this time of year when it’s believed the veil between the living and the dead becomes blurred and ghosts return to earth. To avoid being recognized by ghosts, people would wear masks and place bowls of food outside their homes to appease ghosts and prevent them from attempting to enter.
Not only is it the season for ghosts and goblins, but also stigma. Costumes and haunted houses can feature “psychos”, mental patients and insane asylums. These negative stereotypes of psychological disorders teach people that mental illness should be feared. They provoke the already existing discrimination associated with mental health. You wouldn’t make a haunted cancer ward, so why are we mocking serious mental illnesses?
If you want a personal perception on the topic, read the Washington Post article “Halloween attractions use mental illness to scare us”.
This goes beyond “all in good fun”. There’s evidence that negative perceptions on mental health disorders can prevent people from seeking help. While this one article won’t stop seasonal stores from stocking these costumes, spreading awareness to just one person can cause a ripple effect.
How can you help? This Halloween, make it a goal to check any personal misconceptions about mental illness. When choosing a costume or decoration, carefully consider if it fosters stigma. Resist paying for or visiting haunted “insane asylums”. In addition, spread awareness if possible.
1 in 5 adults experience mental illness each year. Mental illness should be treated with dignity and not ridiculed every Halloween.
In addition, Halloween can be triggering for those living with a mental illness, such as those with anxiety and PTSD. Certain stimuli can create traumatic responses, including panic attacks, flashbacks, nightmares and more. Here are some self-care tips to help reduce stress during spooky season:
Avoid haunted houses or scary movies
Use breathing exercises or mediation
Avoid large crowds when possible
Have a check-in buddy
Repeat positive affirmations or mantras, such as “I am safe and supported”
Partake in calming fall activities, such as apple picking or pumpkin carving
Halloween can be fun for all ages, but it’s essential to balance excitement with mindfulness. By acknowledging the emotional challenges that can come with the holiday, we can create a more positive and mentally healthy experience for all.
If you or someone you know is facing a mental health crisis, please call 9-8-8 to be connected to a trained counselor.
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