Scary stories, real fears: helping teens navigate October risks
Around the end of October, themes of fear, death and danger are everywhere in films, games and social media. For some teenagers this becomes a backdrop for riskier behaviour at parties or online. In online therapy we differentiate between playful exploration and situations that genuinely put them at risk. We talk openly about group dynamics, dares and the fear of being excluded if they say no. Together we practise specific phrases and exit strategies they can use when a situation crosses their limits. We also explore what emotional needs these intense experiences are trying to meet, such as feeling alive, noticed or powerful. Parents receive guidance on how to discuss these topics without shaming curiosity or ignoring real dangers. If you sense that seasonal “fun” is sliding into something more worrying, reserving an online session can bring these fears into the open safely.