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Halloween is a time for costumes, sweets, spooky movies, and a bit of harmless fun, but not everyone experiences it the same way. For some young people, Halloween can be exciting. For others, it can feel overwhelming, anxiety-inducing or even lonely. However you feel about it, your feelings are valid and we’re here to help you look after your wellbeing, whatever the season.
Let’s Learn About How Halloween Started…
Halloween has been around for a long time! It started over 2,000 years ago with the ancient Celtic festival of Samhain (pronounced “sow-in”). This was a time when people believed the barrier between the living and the dead was at its thinnest and spirits could walk among us.
People lit bonfires, wore costumes to scare away ghosts and celebrated the end of the harvest season. Over time, traditions have changed and blended. Today, Halloween may feel a little different to what it was 2,000 years ago, but its roots are all about transitions, change and honouring those who came before us.
Looking After Your Mental Health This Halloween
Halloween can bring a lot of social pressure to dress up or to go out. If you’re feeling stressed or unsure, here are some gentle reminders:
You don’t have to dress up
Costumes can be fun, but they’re not for everyone. If you don’t feel comfortable dressing up, that’s okay. You can join in other ways or not at all. There’s no right way to “do” Halloween.
Scary doesn’t have to mean unsafe
If spooky decorations, costumes or horror films make you feel anxious, you’re not alone. Take breaks, avoid things that feel too much and speak up if something doesn’t feel right. You also don’t have to answer the door to trick-or-treaters if this feels unsafe to you!
You’re allowed to say no
If you don’t want to go trick-or-treating, go to a party or join in a game, it’s okay to set boundaries.
Be Kind, Be Aware, Be Safe
Whether you’re out and about or just enjoying the season, here are a few ways to help make Halloween feel safer and more inclusive for everyone:
Respect people’s boundaries
Not everyone celebrates Halloween. If someone doesn’t answer the door or puts up a “no trick-or-treat” sign, that’s their choice and that’s okay.
Not every costume is okay
Avoid costumes that make fun of someone’s culture, mental health, disability or identity. Being kind is more important than being “funny.”
Look out for each other
If you’re out with friends, stay together, stick to well-lit areas and let a trusted adult know where you’re going to be.
Feeling Left Out or Low?
It might seem like everyone is out having fun, but that’s not always the case. Social media can make it look like others are having the “perfect” time but remember people usually only post the highlights or what they want you to see.
If you’re feeling left out, anxious or down, talk to someone you trust. You’re not alone and you don’t have to keep it all in.
We’re Here for You
Halloween can bring up all kinds of feelings, excitement, pressure, nerves or just a desire to hide under the duvet. That’s okay. Our service is here to support your emotional wellbeing, all year round. Whether you’re worried about friendships, feeling low, anxious or just need someone to talk to…we’re here to listen. So, however you spend Halloween this year remember to stay safe, be kind and take care of your mental health.
Halloween is a time for costumes, sweets, spooky movies, and a bit of harmless fun, but not everyone experiences it the same way. For some young people, Halloween can be exciting. For others, it can feel overwhelming, anxiety-inducing or even lonely. However you feel about it, your feelings are valid and we’re here to help you look after your wellbeing, whatever the season.
blended. Today, Halloween may feel a little different to what it was 2,000 years ago, but its roots are all about transitions, change and honouring those who came before us.
Not everyone celebrates Halloween. If someone doesn’t answer the door or puts up a “no trick-or-treat” sign, that’s their choice and that’s okay.
Halloween can bring up all kinds of feelings, excitement, pressure, nerves or just a desire to hide under the duvet. That’s okay. Our service is here to support your emotional wellbeing, all year round. Whether you’re worried about friendships, feeling low, anxious or just need someone to talk to…we’re here to listen. So, however you spend Halloween this year remember to stay safe, be kind and take care of your mental health.
