Why Are Humans Afraid of Death?

Almost everyone has felt afraid of dying at some point. Where does the fear come from, and why do some people feel it more than others? Psychologists have studied this for decades. This article gives the main findings in plain terms. It is not medical advice.

What is fear of death?

Anxiety about one’s own death. A research summary notes that it is also called thanatophobia, and that thinkers such as Sigmund Freud, Erik Erikson, and Ernest Becker wrote about it. The summary also describes Robert Langs’ idea that there are several types, including an existential type that comes from the basic knowledge that life must end. A systematic review found that death anxiety appears across several mental health conditions.

Who feels it most?

Younger and middle-aged adults, according to research. A 2025 systematic review says death anxiety peaks in young to middle adulthood and declines in older age. A University of Michigan national survey of 2,783 adults found that death anxiety was higher among younger and middle-aged people than among older ones. It also found that a religious sense of hope reduced it in older age groups. A 2024 review of 46 studies on older adults found five themes: demographic factors, psychological and social factors, spiritual and religious factors, reminders of death, and interventions.

Does religion take the fear away?

A little, but it depends how faith is held. A meta-analysis from Oxford researchers combined 202 results from 100 studies and found a weak link between more religiosity and less fear of death. People whose faith is a deep personal commitment had less death anxiety, while people who use religion for practical or social benefits had more. For one theory about how people cope, see Terror Management Theory.

What helps?

Talking and, when needed, therapy. The research summary reports that a meta-analysis of psychological treatments found that death anxiety can be reduced using cognitive behavioral therapy. If the fear is affecting your sleep, work, or relationships, talk to a doctor or counselor. In a crisis in the United States, call or text 988.

Where can I read more?

See Death Anxiety: What Psychology Says About the Fear of Dying and Stoicism and Death. For what care at the end of life looks like, see What Is Hospice?.