7 Shocking Ouija Board Risks You Need to Know

Hey there, friend. Pull up a chair, because we need to talk about something that’s been on my mind – Ouija boards. I know, I know, they seem like a fun, spooky game at parties, a way to maybe connect with something… beyond. But trust me, after years of hearing stories, researching, and even having a few experiences myself, I think it’s crucial to understand the Ouija Board Risks before you even think about touching one.

The Illusion of Control: Are You Really in Charge?

One of the biggest misconceptions about Ouija boards is that you’re in control. You and your friends are just guiding the planchette, right? That’s what I thought too, back in college. My friends and I, bored one Friday night, decided to try it out. We bought one from a novelty shop and, fueled by pizza and bad horror movies, huddled around it in the dimly lit dorm room. At first, nothing happened. We were laughing, pushing the planchette around ourselves, probably. But then, it started to spell out answers. Answers to questions we hadn’t even vocalized. The room got cold. I swear, even the air felt heavy. We thought we were being hilarious, but the truth is, in retrospect, nobody really controlled what was happening.

The ideomotor effect is often cited as the scientific explanation – subconscious muscle movements guiding the planchette. And maybe that’s true. But according to my own experiences, there are situations where the effect doesn’t fully explain what’s happening. It feels like you are opening a door, and you are not sure what might cross through. If you think about it, the ideomotor effect works both ways: you think that you’re in control when, in fact, you are unconsciously moving things. The question that remains for me is: can something use the ideomotor effect to fool you and to give the illusion that you have control? I personally think that is possible, and that is one of the main Ouija Board Risks that are worth considering.

Opening the Door: Who Are You Inviting In?

This is where things get… complicated. Whether you believe in spirits, demons, or just the power of suggestion, using an Ouija board is, in essence, an invitation. You’re signaling that you’re open to communication with something beyond the veil. And let’s be honest, you have no idea who or what might answer. Think of it like this: you’re broadcasting a signal. It may not be a good idea to send signals into the void if you don’t know what, or who, is listening and responding. My old neighbor, Sarah, told me a story that always stuck with me. She and her sister used an Ouija board as kids, just messing around. But one day, they contacted something that claimed to be a deceased relative. Over time, the entity became increasingly aggressive, demanding attention and disrupting their lives. Sarah always said that they never fully got rid of it, that it lingered in their house, a constant source of unease. That story made me realize that one of the major Ouija Board Risks is opening yourself up to unwanted and potentially harmful entities.

Psychological Impact: The Power of Suggestion and Fear

Even if you don’t believe in the supernatural, the psychological impact of using an Ouija board can be significant. The power of suggestion is incredibly strong, especially in a group setting where everyone is already primed to expect something spooky. This can lead to heightened anxiety, paranoia, and even shared hallucinations. I’ve seen it happen. I have seen people who are convinced they are being haunted after using a Ouija board, even when there’s no objective evidence to support their claims. The mind is a powerful thing, and fear can manifest in very real ways. It can affect your sleep, your relationships, and your overall well-being. Never underestimate how the mind can trick you into believing in things that aren’t there. This is a subtle but still dangerous risk associated with the boards. It is also another reason why people should understand the Ouija Board Risks.

Attachment and Obsession: When the Game Becomes Real

For some people, using an Ouija board can become an obsession. They get caught up in the perceived connection with the spirit world, constantly seeking answers and validation. This can lead to a detachment from reality and a dependence on the board for guidance. I knew someone who started using an Ouija board to make decisions about their life – from what job to take to who to date. Eventually, they became completely reliant on the board, unable to make even the smallest decisions without consulting it. Their life spiraled out of control, and they lost their friends and family in the process. It sounds unreal, but it happens. The danger is in losing perspective. A board game can become a gateway, a crutch, a reason to escape from what is actually real. It can be a very real downward spiral if a person is not careful.

The Unknown: Are You Prepared for What You Might Find?

Ultimately, the biggest risk of using an Ouija board is the unknown. You simply don’t know what you’re getting into. You might have a harmless, slightly spooky experience. Or you might open a door to something you can’t close. Are you truly prepared to deal with the potential consequences? That’s a question you need to ask yourself honestly before you even think about touching one of those things. I am not telling you to not do it, or that using a Ouija Board is wrong. I am simply saying, be careful, be responsible, and be prepared.

Protecting Yourself: Practical Precautions if You Choose to Play

If, despite everything I’ve said, you’re still determined to use an Ouija board, please take some precautions. First, never use it alone. There’s safety in numbers. Second, always be respectful. Don’t treat it like a joke or a game. Third, establish clear boundaries. State your intention to only communicate with positive entities. Finally, and most importantly, always close the session properly. Say goodbye, thank the entity for its time, and move the planchette in a figure-eight motion to sever the connection. These rituals are not guarantees, but they’re better than nothing. Some people also recommend cleansing the space afterward with sage or salt. It is better to be safe than sorry, so do some more research before you even consider playing around with one. Do not use a Ouija Board if you have a history of mental illness. Never provoke any entities. Finally, remember that the greatest Ouija Board Risks come from underestimating the power of the unknown and your own vulnerability.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth the Risk?

Look, I’m not trying to scare you. I just want you to be aware of the potential risks before you dive into something you might regret. In my opinion, the potential for harm outweighs the fleeting thrill of a spooky game. There are plenty of other ways to have fun and explore the paranormal without potentially opening yourself up to something negative. I encourage you to carefully consider everything I’ve shared. Do your research, weigh the pros and cons, and make an informed decision. Is it worth it? That’s something only you can decide.

Want to learn more about the potential dangers? Check out this article for an in-depth look at Ouija Board Risks.