How to Survive Halloween (and Keep Your Sanity) When Life’s Already a Horror Show

Cozy Halloween

Halloween’s here, and while some folks are decorating with fake spiderwebs and “haunted house” decor, others of us feel like we’re already starring in our own mental horror show! If you’re dealing with anxiety, ADHD, or just general life stress, Halloween might feel like just another spooky day. But with a dash of humor and some practical tips, let’s make it a treat! Here’s how to survive this season without ghosting your mental health.

1. Fear of the Unknown? (You’re Not Alone)

Halloween is built on mystery and the unexpected, but for those with anxiety, every day can feel like that! You’re already dealing with scary unknowns—like surprise deadlines or “where did I put my keys?” moments. This Halloween, remember to celebrate the small stuff. Lost your keys but didn’t freak out? That’s a win!

Pro Tip: If something’s worrying you, just imagine it’s a trick-or-treater dressed as your fear. Give it a candy bar and send it on its way!

2. Ghosting (A Lesson in Boundaries)

“Ghosting” is a popular term, and honestly, it’s not just for dating! Sometimes you need to ghost an event, a Zoom call, or even that friend who only calls when they need something. If you’re a people-pleaser, consider Halloween your chance to practice setting boundaries—only instead of fake cobwebs, set up a big “DO NOT DISTURB” sign.

Self-Care Costume Idea: Dress up as a “Busy Adult” (juggling responsibilities and holding a “Please Come Back Later” sign). Bonus points if you can carry a toy phone that just says “voicemail.”

3. ADHD and the Costume Dilemma

The pressure of costume planning can be real, especially if you’re indecisive or last-minute! For those with ADHD, Halloween can bring a mountain of decisions: Who should I be? Can I make this with stuff around the house? Will I lose track of this idea and be rushing to Walmart on the 31st?

ADHD-Friendly Tip: Embrace the art of “whatever you can find” costumes. Throw on your comfiest pajamas, grab a coffee cup, and go as “Exhausted Adult.” Or, pull random items from your closet and call yourself “Abstract Art.” Simple, effective, and you won’t spend a dime!

4. Social Anxiety? Channel Your Inner Zombie

Haunted houses, parties, and trick-or-treaters all require social energy you may not have. But instead of dodging invites, go as a zombie—no emotion, little eye contact, and you get to walk slowly without anyone questioning it! Bonus: You can show up for five minutes, mumble something incoherent, and you’ve fully embraced the role.

Pro Trick: Wear headphones and tell people it’s part of your costume’s “vibe.” The added distance works wonders!

5. The Overthinker’s Costume Party

If you’re prone to overthinking, Halloween can feel like a minefield. What does my costume say about me? Will people laugh with me or at me? Here’s a radical idea: pick something so simple and bizarre that it defies analysis. Go as an empty cardboard box (tell people it’s “my to-do list”), or wrap yourself in caution tape and call it “Boundaries.”

Confidence Boost: Remind yourself that most people are way too focused on their own costumes (or social anxiety) to overanalyze yours!

6. When Real Life is Scarier Than Horror Movies

Forget horror films—real life is scary enough! Sometimes, the idea of watching actual scary movies just doesn’t appeal. Instead, try some therapeutic viewing options: watch a kid’s Halloween movie, a nature documentary, or even turn on those cozy fireplace videos. Nothing wrong with a little wholesome escapism!

Bonus Therapy: Wear a silly costume and give yourself permission to just be goofy. Laughter is therapeutic—don’t take yourself too seriously, even if you’re dressed like a slice of pizza.

7. Trick-or-Treat Yourself (Yes, Really)

Halloween is the perfect excuse to give yourself a treat. It could be actual candy or, better yet, a little mental health indulgence. Take a break from responsibilities, binge-watch a silly TV show, or buy yourself something small that makes you happy. Life’s hard—don’t forget to celebrate yourself!

Self-Treat Tip: Add a few things to your “I Did It” list this week—no matter how small. Whether you braved a social event, went outside, or remembered to eat lunch, each small win deserves a (fun-size) reward.

Final Takeaway: Halloween reminds us that life can be a little spooky, but a lot of it is in good fun. Use this holiday to celebrate who you are (quirks, anxiety, ADHD, and all). So dress up, laugh at the absurdity of life, and remember: you’re braver than you think and way more resilient than any horror movie character.