The deaths of two Indian singers, Sidhu Moose Wala and KK, one after the other has raised eyebrows in certain astrologically inclined circles. For, after all, patterns are no coincidence in the Indian subcontinent.

Some people developed theories based on the rumour that Sidhu discussed death only six days before his own. His latest song The Last Ride 295 shows the date of his death i.e. 29/5. KK died a similar death to renowned singer Mukesh who passed away during a concert in America. Both celebrities died at the same age: 53.

Superstition abounds in Pakistan as well, and it can have devastating consequences. Who can forget the pregnant woman rushed to hospital after a witch doctor hammered nails into her skull after convincing her that this would bring forth a baby boy? And then, in Karachi an entire family that was put in a trunk and thrown into the sea because they were convinced they were being called by the spirits.

The antidote to superstition is received wisdom from religion. “Islam tells us that any loss or harm people face is due to their own shortcomings,” said educational speaker Erum Zia on Aaj Pakistan with Sidra Iqbal on Thursday. “God does not want harm for anyone.”

Superstitions sometimes form under influence from friends and family and can even be trans-generational or passed on from generation to generation. Consider the example of the Netflix documentary, House of Secrets: The Burari deaths on the real life case of 11 members of a family. One of the eldest members convinced the others that he was in contact with the spirit of a deceased family member, and that they need to sacrifice themselves so the spirit can protect them. Children are told these stories which are constantly reinforced often through tradition and culture, so much that they become a part of their psyche.

Psychotherapist Humera Affan explained that people who suffer from self-doubt can easily fall for myths and superstitions. When people are frustrated they often find solace in myths and superstitions, instead of understanding the real reason behind life events and happenings. They go into denial and use projection as a defense mechanism. They blame everything on superstitions and astrology.

One solution is to try to find ways to overcome self-doubt and become self-confident, or take responsibility for your own actions instead of blaming losses and tragedy on evil spirits.