Horror Community Foundation Links Frights with Mental Wellness

A new initiative in Burbank is merging the thrill of horror with mental health support. The Horror Community Foundation aims to provide a safe space for individuals to cope with anxiety, stress, and burnout through the lens of horror media. This community-driven project is gaining traction among Los Angeles’ vibrant horror enthusiasts.

Located in a colorful horror-themed convenience store known as the Horror Boodega, the foundation is spearheaded by owner Terri Rivera. The Boodega is a nostalgic haven adorned with vibrant colors, a cartoon mural of Beetlejuice, and unique decor, including a chair shaped like Freddy Krueger’s blade glove. Rivera describes the space as a form of “healing inner child,” inspired by her own childhood experiences with horror films.

Rivera recalls how scary movies served as a source of comfort during difficult times. “If I was having a really hard week, I would drive over to my friend’s house and say, ‘Girl, I need to see some heads roll!’” she shares. This sense of escapism, Rivera believes, can be therapeutic, akin to exposure therapy, allowing individuals to confront their fears in a controlled environment.

The Horror Community Foundation started hosting support groups led by licensed therapists, meditation sessions, and film screenings tailored for the horror community. Research indicates that horror media can facilitate the processing of intense emotions linked to trauma, providing a safe environment for discussion. In support groups held at both the Boodega and the nearby Mystic Museum, participants engage with horror film clips to foster conversation. Rivera notes that even if someone doesn’t live a life akin to a horror film, they may resonate with the feelings portrayed on screen.

In the last two years, Rivera has faced significant challenges, motivating her to create the supportive environment she wished she had. The meetups have been warmly received, with attendees quickly feeling a sense of belonging. Rivera highlights the strong presence of horror fans in Los Angeles, noting that the community here may surpass that of her former home in New York. “Here, it’s like an absolute lifestyle. It’s very defining,” she explains, referring to events like Midsummer Scream, where fans express their passion for the genre.

The popularity of the Horror Community Foundation’s events has led to a growing demand for space, reflecting the community’s eagerness to connect. “People are genuinely opening up. They’re sharing. They’re laughing,” Rivera says. “It just felt like the beginning of just a really cool community forming.”

To celebrate the end of October, the Horror Community Foundation is hosting a sip-and-paint movie night featuring The Craft on October 30, 2023. More details about this event and future gatherings can be found on the foundation’s official website.

This innovative approach to mental health through horror not only offers a unique coping mechanism but also fosters a sense of community among those who share a passion for the genre. As the Horror Community Foundation continues to grow, it stands as a testament to the healing power of shared interests and experiences.