Anxiety and fear after watching a scary movie

I recently watched a horror movie. I usually get scared but I will get over my fear after few days. But this time my problem is, I can't erase the mood of that scary movie from my mind (it has already been 8 days). It has this very depressing, dirty, morbid, yucky mood and it's like everywhere I look, I somehow attach that mood to it. I tried watching other movies, but the mood of that movie keeps on popping in my head. I can no longer remember that magical mood of happy movie because it is being overlapped by the mood of the horror flick I've watched.

I don't know if somebody else has experienced this. What should I do? It's very annoying because all of the beautiful things I used to enjoy is somehow tainted by the depressing mood of that movie. The more I try to get rid of it and to remember what I've felt before when watching a happy movie, the more it rears its ugly head.

I know I've been very stressed out lately (need to pay debts and lost my job, moved in a new small apartment, not able to go out as much as I want........), I also suffer from anxiety after having a panic attack years ago, but I've never felt this way. The movie was based on a true story so even if I tell myself: "It's just a movie" it doesn't work.

Please give me your advice. Am I going crazy?? Thank you all in advance for taking time to read my message.

Hi V and welcome! I used to be able to watch scary movies...not anymore! I agree with the way that Kitt put it...sometimes there is just too much going on in our lives sometimes without adding in more stress in the form of recreation!

While you can't erase what's been done, you can try to reverse its negative effect somewhat. When the feelings/mood from the movie come up, couteract with a positive image and mantra. Choose a mental picture that makes you happy (a pet, friend, happy memory) and focus on that while you repeat a positive phrase to yourself. It could be something like..."I am safe and this is only fear, it can't hurt me" or something of your choosing that feels right.

Kitt is right, with time this will fade, and trying this is the meantime will hopefully get you through:) Post with us anytime, and let us know how you are doing soon.

Scaredy Cat

V, Here are a couple of sites to get you started...

psychcentral.com/lib/2007/finding-low-cost-psychotherapy/
www.lowcosttherapy.com

If these don't pan out, you can also look into group therapy, which is often more affordable than one-on-one.

There is also on-line therapy. The obvious appeal being they are free and convenient...the downside is they are not very customized or personal. There are a couple that come highly recommened though, such as Moodgym and E-couch.

I hope that one of these resources will give you a step in the right direction. I applaud you for seeking help, and I know that you will do wel:) (just lay off the horror movies, lol!)

Keep posting!
Scaredy Cat

Hi vr, Im like paniccu I don't watch horror movies anymore..they scare the willies outta me and then I relive them in my head for days...get some good thoughts in your head and like SC said a positive mantra is always good...get some exercise, watch a feel good movie..I love the rocky movies...corney I know but I just feel good after I watch them plus I have a secret crush on Sylvester stall one...lol..

Good luck and there's some great advice on here hope you feel better soon.....best wishes..shannon

Hi V,
I promise it will go away. Having developed a bit of a problem with anxiety, you're bound to be more sensitive to upsetting movies and the like, I know I am. Sometimes after watching something like that, I'm in a funk for days and the world seems like a scary place where I'll never be comfortable, but it will pass.
I definitely recommend seeing a therapist. I know it's expensive and it takes a while to find the right one and get comfortable with them, but I promise it's worth it to improve your quality of life, and you will. Talking is the absolute best thing you can do. If you're not able to to start seeing someone right away, use a receptive friend who will listen and support you. If they're a true friend, thermos be happy too. There's more room on the outside than the inside for these feelings. Talk talk talk!
Be patient and keep your chin up, so many people experience your feelings and stop them from getting in the way of Happiness.