PND made me immune to horror films

[Chudasama89]

I have never enjoyed horror films of any kind, up until now the scariest thing I had watched was Casper! But since having severe post natal depression, and some traits of PTSD from losing my brother 3 years ago to suicide, I have been watching a horror film every night. I don't feel anything when I watch these films, I just feel numb. Anyone who knows me, will say that I am a complete scaredy-cat and am terrified of horror films, so this is completely out of the ordinary for me.

I am on 100mg sertraline (anti depressants) and I'm under the care of the perinatal mental health team which involves weekly group therapies with occupational therapists.

I was just wondering if anyone else has gone through this with horror films (or anything similar)? Should I be worried?

Losing your brother must be heartbreaking, my condolences.

Being able to tolerate/enjoy horror films may be indicating that you are maturing or growing up.

If you are concerned you should consult your therapist.

And btw,antidepressants are a blessing.
Never feel anything other than appreciation for them helping you through a very hard time in your life.

You sound desensitised which isn't great no. I don't agree that it's a sign of maturity. It's more of a sign of lack of empathy, which is not fantastic. What are you like with sad films, funny films etc.?

Fellow pnd sufferer here. No advice, just sending love. It's horrible to go through 😞

Feeling numb can be a side effect of antidepressants like Sertraline. I'd be interested to know what you're like with sad and funny films like a PP asked

It is not a sign of maturity. I know when my depression is worsening is when I get obsessed with horror movies or really up on true crime, as I'm immune to it.

Thank you all for your messages. A few of you have asked about sad or funny films so I tried it out tonight. I enjoyed the comedy film we watched and had a good laugh. I haven't found anything sad that interests me enough to watch. But I didn't really enjoy sad films before depression. I am going to call my mental health team tomorrow and tell them about how I'm feeling and that I think it's possible that I'm becoming desensitised to horror films though.

I mean I've watched some seriously scary films and I just don't feel anything at all.
I've watched Wrong Turn, The Grudge, Texas Chainsaw massacre, several different exorcism films, The Ring, The Purge, IT and Paranormal Activity.

Good idea to call your team. All the best!