Effects of Nightmares

The frequent effects of nightmares may lead one to wonder, “what are the effects of nightmares?” Of course, nightmares have multiple causes and effects, which vary with each individual experiencing them. These causes are related to the effects in the sense that if you can figure out the cause, you may be able to lessen the severity of the effect or possibly eliminate serious nightmares in the future.

One effect that nightmares can have on an individual is waking from sleep during the disturbing dream. Nightmares can be terrifying and vivid experiences. Often times the person who is experiencing the nightmare will be abruptly awakened and have difficulty returning to sleep. Along with the residual bad feelings, the experience results in missing much needed sleep.
 
Someone who experiences nightmares should also be aware of their cause. There can be several reasons as to why one could experience nightmares. If nightmares are infrequent occurrences that don’t cause significant distress to the dreamer, these nightmares should not be too large of a concern. These nightmares could be caused by a stressful situation or overall anxiety. However, if nightmares are occurring frequently and are very disturbing, they should be given careful thought and examination because they could be a symptom of post traumatic stress disorder.
 
One reason someone may experience frequent, disturbing nightmares, is they are suffering from post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). PTSD is fairly common and can vary in severity from case to case. Generally, the more frightening or traumatic the experience, the more severe the symptoms of PTSD will be. PTSD can be the result of any experience that the person finds very frightening or highly emotional. Some symptoms of PTSD include: nightmares, altered daytime behavior, flashbacks, overwhelming emotions (usually the emotions felt at the time of the traumatic event), and depression. PTSD symptoms can occur long after the traumatic event taken place. So even if you think you are over the traumatic event, there is still a chance you are suffering from PTSD.

Nightmares that result from PTSD normally involve the same emotions experienced during the traumatic event. These emotions normally include rage or intense fear of grief. Nightmares can also be the result of certain medications or bothersome thoughts or events during the day. Medications that usually cause nightmares are those that affect the neurotransmitters in the brain.

If you or someone you know suffers from reoccurring disturbing nightmares, they could be suffering from PTSD. There are treatments, and they are encouraged to seek help. To learn more about treatments, follow the link.