Halloween, a night of ghosts, ghouls, and candy, can be a time of joy and excitement for many. However, for former Christians who once believed Halloween was demonic, the season can be a trigger for anxiety, fear, and even panic attacks.
Let's dive into why this might be and what you can do to navigate spooky season with grace and ease.
Why is Halloween a Trigger?
Conditioning: If you were raised in a Christian household, you were likely taught that Halloween was associated with the devil and evil spirits. This conditioning can be deeply ingrained, even after leaving the faith.
Fear of the Unknown: The unknown can be scary, and Halloween is full of it. Ghosts, witches, and other supernatural creatures can evoke feelings of fear and uncertainty.
Shame and Guilt: If you were made to feel guilty or ashamed for enjoying Halloween as a child, these feelings may linger, making the season difficult to navigate.
Coping Strategies for Halloween Triggers
Acknowledge Your Feelings: The first step is to recognize that your feelings are valid. It's okay to feel triggered or anxious. Don't judge yourself for experiencing these emotions.
Challenge Your Thoughts: When you find yourself thinking negative thoughts about Halloween, challenge them. Ask yourself, "Is this really true?" or "Is there another way to look at this?"
Create a Safe Space: Surround yourself with people who support you and make you feel comfortable. Spend time with friends and family who understand your feelings and won't judge you.
Practice Self-Care: Take care of yourself physically and emotionally. Get enough sleep, eat healthy foods, and engage in activities that you enjoy. Consider meditation, yoga, or journaling as ways to manage stress and anxiety.
Reframe Halloween: Instead of seeing Halloween as a demonic holiday, try to reframe it as a fun and festive time. Focus on the positive aspects of the season, such as spending time with loved ones and enjoying delicious treats.
Set Boundaries: If you're not comfortable with certain Halloween activities, set boundaries. It's okay to say no to things that make you feel uncomfortable.
Seek Professional Help: If you're struggling to cope with Halloween triggers, consider seeking professional help. A therapist can provide you with tools and strategies to manage your anxiety and improve your overall well-being.
Remember, it's okay to have mixed feelings about Halloween. The most important thing is to be kind to yourself and find healthy ways to cope with your emotions. With time and practice, you can learn to navigate spooky season with confidence and ease.
So, grab your favorite candy, put on a cozy sweater, and enjoy the festivities!
XO,
K
In the first monthly email you wrote about buying a tarot deck. I have been questioning what I believe in for a few months in that time found I believed more in what tarot readings said on YouTube than the Bible. I have now invested in 2 decks and an oracle deck. I felt the same way with my first deck I didn’t display it now I want to display my items.