Amber Minogue

Thanks for asking.

For some, true crime stories have a strangely calming effect when they're tucked up in bed for the night.

It's a phenomenon that's not gone unnoticed on TikTok, where people share how tales of mystery and suspense are part of their go-to nighttime routine.

If you're one of those who drift off to the narration of unsolved cases, rest assured you're in good company.

And although the link between crime stories and relaxation has yet to be formally established, it's clear that these habits have a huge following.

Why does it relax us?

It's an intriguing paradox.

The very stories that chill us to the bone also usher us into slumber.

Like a modern twist on the bedtime story, these narratives shift our focus away from daily stresses, be it looming work deadlines, pending homework, or endless to-do lists.

The American Academy of Sleep Medicine even suggests that immersing ourselves in a story at bedtime can not only lead to better sleep, but also enhances digestion and cognitive function.

But why choose crime stories?

Despite their grim content, crime stories have carved out a niche in the nighttime routines of many.

While they're not everyone's cup of tea, for some the confrontation with fictional horrors offers a sense of security.

The more ghastly the tale, the safer one feels under the covers.

Samuel Dock, a clinical psychologist, describes this as a comforting ritual, a reminder of our own safety compared to the chaos unfolding in the story.

But if you have trouble sleeping, there are other stories you can try.

Specialists recommend meditation or travelogues, which are much more soothing, according to the National Geographic.

Isn't it a bit weird to be fascinated by this kind of story?

Our fascination with crime stories isn't morbid curiosity.

It's a deep-seated interest in the human psyche and the mysteries that lurk within.