What is a psychic attack? And what can you do about it?
What is a psychic attack?
A psychic attack occurs when negative energy is intentionally or unintentionally directed at an individual, causing energetic, emotional, mental, or even physical disturbances. This energy may come from another person, an entity, or environmental influences. Psychic attacks can be intentional, such as when a spirit is offended, or from a human through malicious spellwork or directed ill will, or unintentional, arising from jealousy, resentment, or unconscious energetic projections. Recognizing these attacks allows individuals to take protective measures to restore balance and safeguard their well-being.
Energetic or psychic attacks are real concerns for those who are attuned to the unseen. While not all discomfort or misfortune is the result of external malice, there are signs that can indicate the presence of negative energetic interference. Understanding these symptoms can empower you to take protective and restorative action, including collaborating with protective spirits, engaging in return to sender spells, and even making your own ritual supplies with warding in mind.
Persistent Negative Thoughts or Intrusive Fears
If you are suddenly plagued by irrational fears, self-doubt, or destructive thought patterns that seem foreign to you, it could suggest an external energy imposing itself upon your psyche. Malicious workings often aim to destabilize one’s sense of self and confidence, making it crucial to discern whether these feelings are truly your own.
Disruptions in Sleep and Nightmares
Unsettling dreams, night terrors, or recurring nightmares featuring themes of being pursued, attacked, or trapped may indicate an energetic attack. Waking up suddenly at odd hours, especially between midnight - 3 AM (often referred to as the ‘witching hour’ or ‘Devil’s hour’, depending on tradition), with an unexplained sense of fear or dread, is another common sign.
Unusual Physical Symptoms
While illness should always be ruled out medically first, sudden, unexplained bodily sensations—such as headaches, pressure on the chest, dizziness, or random aches and pains—can sometimes be manifestations of external energetic interference. Skin disturbances, an unexplained sensation of being watched, or cold spots around your body may also be indicators.
Repetitive Unfortunate Events
A string of bad luck, technological malfunctions, interpersonal conflicts, or financial setbacks occurring in rapid succession, with no logical explanation, can be another sign of directed malefic workings. When things seem to consistently go wrong despite your best efforts, it’s worth examining whether an external energetic force is at play.
Feeling ‘Off’ in Sacred or Cleansed Spaces
If you typically find peace in your home, altar, or other sacred spaces but suddenly feel discomfort or repulsion, it may suggest an external force disrupting your energetic field. Protective wards and regular cleansing rituals should be revisited to restore harmony.
What To Do Next
If you resonate with several of these signs, it’s important to take action, though do not panic (as some spirits feed on fear). Cleansing rituals, protective charms, grounding practices, and seeking spiritual guidance can help you reclaim your energy and sovereignty. Strengthening your boundaries—both physically and energetically—ensures that you remain resilient in the face of unseen influences. In Crafting the Arcane, I go in-depth around practices of working with spirits of protection, banishing work, warding, and other workings.
A Note on Health and Well-Being: It is essential to consult a qualified medical professional for any physical or psychological symptoms you may be experiencing. While spiritual practices can provide support, they should not replace proper medical care. A holistic approach that includes both practical and energetic interventions ensures the best path to well-being.
With spirit,