Why Do We Get Scary Split-Second Thoughts About Injuring Ourselves or Others? Terrifying Intrusive Thoughts Explained by Science
Have you ever stood near a balcony and suddenly experienced an unwanted thought about throwing something off, only to be jolted by a rush of fear? Maybe you’ve found yourself sitting in a quiet room and felt an uncomfortable urge to shout out for no reason. Or maybe you’ve encountered a fragile object and had a disturbing thought about smashing it. If so, you’ve experienced what psychologists call “the call of the void,” a curious and fascinating part of human psychology.
What is the Call of the Void?
“The call of the void,” or l’appel du vide as the French call it, refers to that unsettling feeling or intrusive thought that arises when we consider doing something dangerous or self-destructive. It’s that split-second urge to do something potentially catastrophic, even though we have no intention of acting on it.
Evolutionary Roots
Believe it or not, this strange phenomenon may have deep evolutionary roots. Evolutionary psychologists suggest that these thoughts might be a result of our brain’s ancient survival mechanisms. Our ancestors who were more aware of dangerous situations—like cliffs or predators—were more likely to survive and pass on their genes. Therefore, the brain developed a mechanism to quickly evaluate threats, even if they were not imminent, which explains why we sometimes have intrusive thoughts about dangerous circumstances and actions.
Psychological Explanations
From a psychological perspective, the call of the void can be seen as a manifestation of our brain’s complex decision-making processes. It’s a paradoxical mix of fear and fascination, where our mind briefly entertains the possibility of a dangerous action before recoiling from it. Some theories suggest that these thoughts could also stem from a subconscious desire to test our own limits or to confront mortality in a controlled mental space.
Cultural and Philosophical Views
Across different cultures and philosophies, the call of the void has been interpreted in various ways. Existentialists might see it as a confrontation with the absurdity of existence, where our freedom to choose is both liberating and terrifying. Eastern philosophies might view it as a moment of clarity, where the mind briefly steps outside its usual thought patterns.
Coping Strategies for Dealing With Intense Intrusive Thoughts
While the call of the void is a normal psychological phenomenon, it can be distressing for some individuals. If you find these thoughts intrusive or troubling, there are strategies to help manage them:
- Awareness and Acceptance: Recognise that these thoughts are common and do not necessarily reflect your true intentions.
- Mindfulness: Practising mindfulness can help you observe these thoughts without engaging with them, allowing them to pass more easily.
- Seeking Support: If these thoughts significantly impact your daily life or mental well-being, consider speaking with a mental health professional who can provide guidance and support.
Next time you feel the call of the void,
Remember – it’s a natural part of being human, reflecting our curiosity and the limits we can push. Embrace these moments as opportunities to understand yourself better and grow stronger in the face of challenges.
“You are not your thoughts; you are the awareness behind them.” – Eckhart Tolle
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