Scream therapy is a real thing. It originated from the 1970 book "The Primal Scream" by Arthur Janov, a US psychologist. He speculated screaming could help release repressed childhood trauma, which he called "primal pain".
The Effectiveness of Scream Therapy
Screaming into a pillow can be extremely therapeutic. It allows you to release emotions and reduces tension. Pushing anger out of your body helps lower stress. Screaming activates "fight or flight" reactions, so it likely needs caution as an emotional regulation strategy.
Scream Therapy in Practice
In the 1960s Janov developed primal therapy incorporating screaming and crying to discharge repressed trauma. Consequently, screaming therapy has been used in mental health treatment since then. It creates a chemical reaction similar to exercising, providing a dopamine hit. Now evidence supports it as emotional processing, enabling people to access and release trauma.
Popularity of Scream Therapy
Celebrities have tried screaming therapy. Initiatives like in Iceland encourage visitors to record and upload screams. Scream meditation apps are available too. The goal after screaming is feeling relaxed.
Questions About Efficacy
Does screaming actually help? Psychologists believe screaming can be therapeutic by fully releasing pent up emotions so the brain automatically relaxes. Chronic yelling, however, can cause pain. So while temporary screaming catharsis lacks processing, it can complement traditional therapies as a mental health workout.