We all claim that those incredibly addictive shows are just for the “intrigue” or “suspense,” right?
Marrakech – Okay, let’s talk about crime podcasts; but let’s be honest here.
Between the spine-chilling storytelling, the eerie background music, and the mysteries that keep you up late, there’s no denying they have a certain grip on us.
They’re like a psychological rollercoaster: thrilling, unsettling, and very hard to get off once you’ve started.
But here’s the real question: are these podcasts good for our mental health, or do they play a part in, dare we say it, our emotional unraveling?
The thrill factor
We all love a good thrill. There’s something oddly satisfying about being scared — especially when you’re sitting safely on your couch, sipping dark chocolate (or wine,) and wrapped in a blanket (the one you claim is “for decoration,” but is clearly your comfort zone).
For some, true crime podcasts provide that rush of adrenaline without the actual danger.
They allow you to tap into the darker side of human nature without being too affected by it.
But let’s take a moment. Just because it’s thrilling doesn’t necessarily mean it’s good for us, right?
I mean, we don’t go on a rollercoaster every day — unless you’re that one person who can’t seem to get enough of the loop-de-loops, but you get my point.
The darker side
Here’s the thing: dark content can sometimes bring out our own shadows.
It’s like hanging out with a friend who’s always dramatic — after a while, you start feeling a bit dramatic yourself.
If you’re someone who already tends to overthink or has an anxious personality, binge-listening to a dozen episodes about cold cases and unsolved mysteries can leave you a little… on edge.
You might start looking over your shoulder when you hear the slightest creak in the floorboard or question your neighbors a little more than you should.
So, maybe we’re feeding into our own worst fears here.
There’s also the impact on empathy. Listening to horrific stories can be emotionally draining, especially when you’re hearing about the trauma and suffering of real people.
A listener might feel emotionally exhausted or even desensitized over time.
The real question becomes: are we becoming too numb to the world’s darkest realities, or are we more empathetic because we understand them better?
The comfort of connection
But wait — before you ditch your favorite true crime podcast for good, let’s look at the other side of the coin.
Some fans say that true crime podcasts actually help with their mental health by offering a sense of connection.
Whether it’s through discussions in online communities or simply sharing the podcast with friends, these shows can create a feeling of belonging.
Everyone loves a good conspiracy theory, and finding a tribe of people who also obsess over the same crime cases can provide a sense of comfort.
Also, many listeners find solace in the “closure” provided by these podcasts — especially when cases are resolved, or the podcast hosts give deep dives into cases that didn’t receive the attention they deserved.
It’s a reminder that even though the world can feel chaotic and unpredictable, there are still people out there trying to make sense of it all, to seek justice, and to help others heal.
The bottom line: To listen or not to listen?
Life is full of mysteries, and it’s totally okay to be intrigued by the darker ones.
But like everything, balance is key. If you’re someone who thrives on the intellectual stimulation of a good crime story, but you start feeling a little too obsessed, maybe it’s time to take a break.
Maybe it’s the equivalent of knowing when to take off those sky-high heels before you ruin your feet.
True crime can be a fascinating glimpse into human nature, but you deserve a healthy mental space, too.
So, if you’re ready to face the psychological thrill of a cold case or need a distraction from your own daily grind, go ahead — press play.
Just don’t let it leave you up all night, imagining that every creak in your house is someone’s next mystery. You’ve got this.
