Do you suffer from triskaidekaphobia? If you do – today isn’t your day.

It’s Friday the 13th, and while there is nothing inherently unlucky about the day – through history there have been a number of historic events and tragedies that took place on this fateful day – fueling superstitions.

It’s rumored that German forces bombed Buckingham palace on Friday September 13th 1940, in recent history March 13th, 2020 is widely regarded as the first day of the global COVID-19 pandemic – and in 2029 NASA scientists say an asteroid will pass very close to the Earth, on April 13th, 2029.

What is it about the combination of Friday and the number 13 that sends people running from black cats, ladders and broken mirrors?

Historically the number 13 has negative connotations from Judas being the 13th apostle at the last supper to the end of the Knight’s Templar commencing on Friday October 13th, 1307.

Counselor Jennifer Calking with Soul Haven Counseling services says one of the best things people can do if they suffer from anxiety or fear around Friday the 13th.

“One thing we need to think about is our own negativity bias. We remember the strongly negative things that have transpired in our lives around that day. A great strategy is to reframe the date. Start with the number 13. Think of something like a “bakers dozen” which is 13 of some baked item. That 13th donut is a bonus, and a positive one.”

Calking says it’s important refocus.  Create a new Friday the 13th ritual, focus on self care and make it a day to look forward to. Focus on positive affirmations at the start of the day. Focus on some positive messages to yourself.

“Tell yourself that you are strong, fearless and brave and you’re going to face the day with love in my heart – my fears will not stand in my way. Practice deep breathing if you feel overwhelmed. Importantly – at the end of your day finish on a positive note by thinking about 13 great things from your week and 13 things you want to work toward.”