Halloween is the one time of year we actively seek out a good scare.
But while most of us are happy to brave haunted houses, horror movies, or terrifying scare mazes, some people spend October navigating far more unusual anxieties.
Beyond the classic fear of spiders or heights, psychologists and trivia lovers have documented an array of bizarre phobias.
Whether triggered by traditional spooky folklore or unexpected everyday objects, here are 13 weird phobias to get you in the spirit of the season - ending with the ultimate Halloween fear at number 13.
1. Samhainophobia (Fear of Halloween)
Named after the ancient Celtic festival of Samhain, this clinical phobia causes genuine panic over trick-or-treaters, costumes, and festive decorations. | Leeds City Council
2. Phasmophobia (Fear of Ghosts)
An intense, paralysing dread of paranormal encounters—meaning a visit to one of Leeds' famously haunted historic buildings is strictly off-limits. | Canva/Getty Images
3. Coulrophobia (Fear of Clowns)
Spiked annually by sinister Halloween scare actors and horror films, coulrophobia leaves sufferers terrified of red noses, face paint, and oversized shoes. | Provided (PR Handout - Trinity Leeds)
4. Nyctophobia (Fear of the Dark)
One of humanity's oldest foundational fears, nyctophobia triggers overwhelming anxiety over what might be lurking in the shadows once the lights go out. | Canva
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5. Eisoptrophobia (Fear of Mirrors)
Heavily tied to urban legends like Bloody Mary, this is the fear of looking into mirrors - especially in dark rooms - out of dread that your reflection might move on its own. | Canva/Getty Images
6. Wiccaphobia (Fear of Witches)
Rooted deep in historic folklore, wiccaphobia causes severe distress around traditional witchcraft tropes, broomsticks, cauldrons, and pointy hats. | Submitted