AnySelected

Ever find yourself drifting off to sleep with a true crime podcast playing? You're not alone. It's a surprisingly common habit, especially amongst Aussie women. My friend Sophie perfectly summed it up: 'Oh for me, it's a pre-bed thing, I love drifting off to it,' she shared recently. But why are we drawn to these often unsettling narratives before we close our eyes? Is it morbid curiosity, or is there something deeper at play?

The popularity of true crime podcasts, documentaries, and books has exploded in recent years. Shows like Crime Junkie, Serial, and The Teacher’s Pet have captivated audiences worldwide, and Australia is no exception. But why the fascination, particularly when it comes to consuming this content right before bed?

The Comfort of Control

I believe a key element lies in the illusion of control. Our lives are often filled with uncertainty and anxieties – work pressures, relationship worries, financial concerns. True crime, in a strange way, offers a sense of order. We’re presented with a narrative, a puzzle to be solved. Even though the outcome is already known, we can mentally dissect the events, analyse the motives, and feel a sense of intellectual engagement. It's a distraction from our own anxieties, a way to focus on something outside of ourselves, even if that something is disturbing.

The Power of Storytelling

Humans are wired for stories. True crime, at its core, is a compelling narrative with high stakes, relatable characters (even if flawed), and a resolution, however tragic. The storytelling is often meticulously crafted, drawing us in and keeping us hooked. The production quality of many true crime podcasts is also incredibly high, with immersive sound design and expert narration that enhance the listening experience.

A Sense of Safety & Perspective

Paradoxically, listening to true crime can also provide a sense of safety. By learning about the dangers that exist in the world, we become more aware of our surroundings and potentially more cautious in our own lives. It can reinforce the importance of self-protection and awareness. Furthermore, it can offer a perspective shift – reminding us that while terrible things happen, they are statistically rare, and we are likely safe in our own homes.

The Aussie Connection

There's also a uniquely Australian fascination with true crime, perhaps fueled by a desire to understand the darker side of our seemingly safe society. Podcasts like Casefile, which focuses on Australian crimes, are hugely popular, demonstrating a keen interest in local cases and the justice system.

Is it Healthy?

While generally harmless, excessive consumption of true crime content can be triggering for some individuals, particularly those with anxiety or a history of trauma. It's important to be mindful of your own emotional well-being and to take breaks if needed. If you find yourself feeling overly anxious or disturbed after listening, it might be a sign to reconsider your pre-bed ritual.

So, the next time you find yourself listening to a true crime podcast as you drift off to sleep, remember you’re part of a larger trend. It’s likely not just about morbid curiosity – it's about the comfort of control, the power of storytelling, and a uniquely human desire to understand the world around us, even its darkest corners. Sweet dreams (and maybe a little less true crime!).