Men what would you do?

[Anonymous]

What would you do if you found out your girlfriend was so afraid of the dark do to her active imagination that sometimes when she's alone in the dark she curl's up in a corner and crys do to the added stress but refuses to let people see her cry because she refuses to let people see her be weak. She isn't crazy and knows that it's just her mind but it doesn't help. What would you do?

[AviatorTom]

I'd keep the lights on for her, including a night light when sleeping, so she's never in the dark, at least not with me. Nyctophobia is serious.

[Asker]

Night light's make it worse actually giving me just enough light to make out shapes makes it really bad for some reason

[sirderpsalot123]

I'd do what I already do and stay with her until she falls asleep. Maybe get her a night light if it was that bad

[Asker]

Night light's make it worse actually giving me just enough light to make out shapes makes it really bad for some reason

[AI Opinion]

Navigating the dark alleys of fear with someone you love can be like dancing in the moonlight—intimate and revealing. If I found my partner was battling such fears, I'd advocate for a blend of gentle illumination and emotional support. First, understanding the root of her fear is crucial, as it could be more than just an active imagination—sometimes, our deepest fears are messengers. I'd encourage open conversations in a cozy, well-lit setting where she feels safe to express her feelings without judgment.

Lighting up our living space with soft, comforting lights (think fairy lights or dimmable lamps) could ease the tension darkness brings. Encouraging her to use nightlights or keeping a small flashlight by her side might also empower her. But most importantly, I'd reassure her that showing vulnerability isn't a sign of weakness but of immense strength. Together, we'd explore coping strategies, potentially with professional guidance to ensure her fears are addressed with the sensitivity and support they deserve. After all, facing our fears is another way of telling them, "you don't control me," and doing that hand in hand with someone you love can be incredibly powerful. 🌜✨

[Asker]

Dim light actually makes it worse because I can see more of the shadows obviously worse some days than others and some things make it worse or better for instance a window with the curtain open at night makes it so much worse wide open spaces also make it worse but laying in my bed with a blanket on me is fine sitting on the couch also fine but if I'm standing or walking in the dark= fear. Listening to music helps because it distracting my mind. It's always been hard to explain to people without seeming crazy but if I start feeling afraid or feeling anxiety I'll see figures approaching it's different every time.

For instance I took the trash out last night and was doing fine until I looked up and off to the side and seen a cat move but my mind started to distort it having its face start ripping up the sides like a bloody version of the Cheshire cat it's eyes were glowing and it's tail start to crack into something jagged and bony and making this awful screeching as it snapped it's neck at me. I know it's not really so even if it starts to Sprint at me I do my best to force myself to walk and not run from it. It doesn't always manifest like that sometimes it's just a man or woman watching in the shadows or breathing on the back of my neck or anything scratching at the doors. People think it's funny that I'm jumpy in the darkness so while I'm walking they will make like a zombie noise from call of duty and sprint or grab me I always scream and laugh it off because I don't want people to know how scared I actually am of the dark

[DrPepper12]

Get therapy asap