2023-06-30 13:55:20
Title: The Science Behind Nightmares: A Psychologist Explains
Subtitle: Understanding the Connection between Dreams, Reality, and our Emotional Well-being
Date: April 10, 2023
Having nightmares can be a distressing experience, leaving us drenched in sweat and unsettled upon waking up. But what causes nightmares, and is there a connection between our daily experiences and our nocturnal fears? Dr. Hanne Horvath, a psychologist and founder of HelloBetter, sheds light on the mysteries of nightmares in an interview with spot on news.
Nightmares are dreams that leave a lasting impression, with threatening or unpleasant content that triggers strong emotions such as fear, tension, or restlessness. Dr. Horvath explains that these dreams often deviate from the rules of reality, providing amusement, amazement, or fright. While dreams can occur during all phases of sleep, nightmares are commonly experienced in the second half of the night during REM sleep (rapid eye movement sleep), where we are more likely to remember our dreams.
Our dreams serve as a reflection of our experiences, observations, and thoughts from the day. Sometimes, dream images can encapsulate feelings that we may not even be consciously aware of. For example, dreaming of being followed might signify feelings of pressure or stress in real life. Everyday stress, nervousness, and even personality traits can contribute to restless sleep and nightmares. Additionally, conditions such as depression, anxiety disorders, and sleep disorders can also increase the likelihood of experiencing nightmares.
According to studies, sensitive and creative individuals tend to be more prone to nightmares. People with anxiety, depression, and older adults who take certain medications may also experience frequent unpleasant dreams. Another category of nightmares are post-traumatic nightmares, which occur as a result of traumatic events and often involve the reiteration of the traumatic content.
While nightmares can be unsettling, Dr. Horvath emphasizes that they are a normal part of human experience and do not pose any danger to our health. However, if nightmares become chronic and disrupt our sleep, it is important to take measures to promote peaceful and restful sleep. One technique to address a specific nightmare is the Imagery Rehearsal Technique (IRT), where individuals rewrite the script of the nightmare with a more positive outcome. By repeatedly reading the revised script and vividly visualizing it, the emotional impact of the nightmare can diminish over time.
For those who suffer from recurring nightmares, stress reduction, relaxation exercises, meditation, and practicing good sleep hygiene can all be helpful strategies. Identifying activities that positively or negatively impact sleep, such as late-night eating or exposure to disturbing content, can also contribute to reducing nightmares.
In conclusion, understanding the science behind nightmares provides insights into the complex relationship between our dreams, reality, and emotional well-being. While nightmares can be unsettling, they are a normal part of the human experience. Utilizing techniques and therapies, such as the Imagery Rehearsal Technique and stress reduction, can help individuals reclaim a sense of control and promote restful sleep.
Dr. Hanne Horvath’s expertise in the field of psychology, coupled with her role at HelloBetter, a startup for digital psychotherapy, continues to shed light on the fascinating world of dreams and nightmares.
Updated: April 10, 2023, 2:42 p.m.]
#Psychologist #explains #bad #dreams