Do you really know? Does true crime help us fall asleep?
Nov 6, 2025
Many people find true crime stories oddly comforting as they drift off to sleep. This phenomenon trends on TikTok, showcasing how unsolved mysteries can shift our focus from daily stress. There's a surprising link between these chilling tales and improved sleep quality, digestion, and cognitive function. The allure of crime narratives stems from a deeper curiosity about human psychology, providing a sense of safety while confronting fictional horrors. Alternative soothing options like meditation are also discussed for those struggling with sleep.
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Crime Stories As Bedtime Distraction
- True crime can paradoxically calm listeners by redirecting attention from daily stressors to a contained narrative.
- Immersing in a bedtime story, even a dark one, can improve sleep and bodily functions according to sleep experts.
Safety Through Fictional Threats
- Confronting fictional horrors provides a ritual of comparison that reinforces personal safety under the covers.
- The more ghastly the tale, the safer some listeners report feeling in their own environment.
Try Calmer Bedtime Alternatives
- Try alternative bedtime audio like meditation or travelogues if true crime disrupts your sleep.
- Specialists recommend calmer content such as guided meditations or travel stories for more soothing effects.