Dear Dorothy,
I have been having bad dreams lately, and they are starting to affect my sleep and daily life. Some nights, I wake up in a panic, struggling to go back to sleep. Even during the day, I keep thinking about them, and it makes me anxious. I don’t understand why this is happening, and I don’t know what to do about it. Is there any way to stop these bad dreams?
Yours,
Sheila
Dear Sheila,
I’m sorry to hear that bad dreams are troubling you. Nightmares can be unsettling, especially when they disrupt your rest and linger in your thoughts throughout the day. The good news is that there are ways to manage them and improve your sleep.
First, consider any recent stresses or anxieties in your life. Our dreams often reflect our emotions, so if you are feeling overwhelmed, your mind may be processing these worries at night. Keeping a journal to write down your thoughts before bed might help ease your mind.
Creating a relaxing bedtime routine can also make a difference. Avoid screens before bed, as they can interfere with sleep, and try calming activities such as reading, listening to soothing music, or practising deep breathing. Ensuring that your sleeping environment is comfortable and peaceful may also help.
If a particular dream keeps recurring, you might find it helpful to write it down and try to change the ending in your imagination. This can sometimes reduce its power over you.
However, if your nightmares persist and continue to affect your well-being, it might be worth speaking to a professional. A therapist or counsellor could help you understand any underlying causes and suggest techniques to manage them.
Remember, bad dreams do not define your reality. Be kind to yourself, and focus on creating a positive and restful mindset before sleep.
Best wishes,
Dorothy