Good Stress vs. Bad Stress: Where Fear Fits In

This is part 2 of the Fear Factor Series 

It’s October, and you know what that means: pumpkins on porches, skeletons in windows, and haunted houses popping up on every corner. But here’s the real question… why do we pay money to have strangers jump out of the shadows and make us scream?

Why do we binge horror movies, ride roller coasters, or line up for “haunted hayrides” when our bodies are clearly telling us, “Nope, danger ahead!”

The answer might surprise you: a good scare is not only thrilling—it can actually be good for you.

*Please be advised that the topics being discussed on this website are solely for informational purposes and should not be interpreted as medical advice or a replacement for professional healthcare consultation. 

It is your obligation to adhere to all relevant laws, regulations, and guidelines concerning the acquisition, ownership, and utilization of prescription medications.*

The Thrill-Seeking Brain

When you watch a horror flick or walk into a haunted house, your brain gets tricked. It knows you’re safe, but your body doesn’t. That’s when the magic happens:

• Adrenaline kicks in → heart races, senses sharpen.
• Dopamine is released → the “feel-good” brain chemical that makes you feel energized and alive.
• Endorphins follow → your body’s natural painkillers, often leaving you with that post-scare “high.”

It’s a rollercoaster for your nervous system—and when you step off, you feel relief, laughter, and sometimes even pride.

ghostly figure in a field

Controlled Danger = Real Fun

The key is that these scares happen in safe environments. You’re not actually running from a bear—you’re sitting in a theater, strapped into a ride, or walking through a staged haunted house.

This “controlled danger” lets you flirt with fear without the real-life consequences. Think of it like lifting weights at the gym: you stress your muscles just enough to get stronger, but not enough to tear them apart.

Fear Brings Us Closer

Ever notice how couples leave haunted houses holding hands a little tighter? Or how a group of friends bonds over a scary movie marathon?

That’s because shared fear can actually increase social bonding. When you go through something stressful together, even if it’s pretend, your body releases oxytocin (the same hormone linked to trust and closeness).

So yes—screaming together is weirdly good for your relationships.

perception shapes fears

The Ancient Roots of “Play Fear”

Our ancestors didn’t need to seek fear—life was scary enough. Predators, harsh weather, rival tribes… survival was the daily theme.

But in our modern world, we don’t face those same dangers. So instead, we “simulate” fear through games, movies, or rides. Psychologists call this “benign masochism”—doing something that feels bad in the moment but rewarding after.

It’s the same reason we enjoy spicy food, ice baths, or endurance challenges. We choose the discomfort because we know we’ll come out stronger (or at least laughing) on the other side.

skull on a table

So, Why Do We Love a Good Scare?

Because fear, when it’s safe and temporary, gives us:

• A burst of energy.
• A flood of happy brain chemicals.
• A sense of accomplishment.
• Closer connections with the people we share it with.

And best of all—it makes life feel a little more exciting.

So the next time you head into that haunted house or dim the lights for a scary movie, remember: your body might be screaming “danger,” but your brain is whispering “this is fun.”

👻 What’s your favorite way to get scared? 

Horror movies? 

Haunted houses? 

Roller coasters? 

Let us know in the comments—We may just add your story to this series!

"YOUR HEALTH IS YOUR WEALTH!"