5 Ways Nightmares Can Impact Your Mental Wellbeing

Nightmares are dreams that are uncomfortable and can sometimes be traumatising. The exact causes of these remain unknown, although research indicates that they are very common among those who are going through certain mental conditions. Unlike bad dreams, nightmares can be intense. Common themes include falling from heights, chased by animals and feeling lost or helpless. Surprisingly, these scenarios are reported by many people who suffer from nightmares. Experts believe that understanding the science behind nightmares still requires more exploration.

Nightmares are not just associated with mental health issues but also negative emotions, anxiety and sleep patterns. Some medical conditions, treatments or medications can trigger nightmares as well. In this article, we’ll understand how nightmares impact our mental wellbeing.

• Lack of concentration or clear thoughts are the result of horrifying dreams or nightmares. Imagine trying to do your work or homework after a scary dream, it makes completing tasks difficult and can even lead to arguments with friends, family or even with your colleagues in the office, who don’t understand why you’re troubled.
• Nightmares can trigger strong feelings like fear, sadness or anger that continue even after you wake up. This can lead to affecting your mood for the whole day. If nightmares keep happening, it can make someone feel helpless and even lead to depression.
• Nightmares also disrupt sleep patterns as it causes individuals to wake up multiple times throughout the night. This interruption prevents you from getting the deep, relaxing sleep your body needs to feel refreshed and energetic. Over time, poor sleep quality can make you sick or feel anxious and stressed.
• If you’re already struggling with anxiety, depression or PTSD, nightmares can make things worse. For example, nightmares are a common symptom of PTSD and having them regularly can make it challenging to manage the condition well.
• Nightmares can leave you nervous and worried even after you wake up. Your body might stay in alert mode for a while, which makes it hard to relax and feel calm throughout the day. This experience can lead to more anxiety.

Reportedly, therapists recommend the Dream Completion technique, which involves setting up a stable sleeping routine and addressing past traumas through therapy as methods to manage past experiences.