Why nightmares happen and how to cope with them.

 

Nightmares are the brain’s way of turning your sleep into a haunted movie you never asked to watch. They happen when your subconscious decides to hit “play” on your deepest fears, spiders, falling, being chased, or even showing up naked to school.

Scientists believe nightmares are linked to stress, anxiety, trauma, sleep deprivation, medications, or even eating that extra slice of suya at midnight (your brain really doesn’t like digesting heavy meals while you’re supposed to be dreaming peacefully).

Here’s the twist: nightmares aren’t just there to terrify you. They’re like emotional fire drills. Your brain is rehearsing danger, helping you process intense feelings or unresolved problems. Think of them as horror-themed therapy sessions, messy, chaotic, but sometimes useful.

Now, how do you cope? First, don’t run from them, write them down. Sometimes naming the monster takes away its power. Second, upgrade your sleep hygiene: no late-night doomscrolling, no heavy meals before bed, and please, respect the sacred art of consistent sleep. Third, trick your brain: if you keep reliving the same nightmare, try “rescripting” it while awake, change the ending in your head, and your dream may follow. Finally, if they’re relentless, therapy or relaxation practices like meditation and breathing exercises can help quiet the inner horror director.

See also: Wellness guru reveals hack that promises to get you to sleep instantly