Hi raspberrygirlmaja...I only joined PC 3 months ago, but already I have recieved really constructive feedback and made some amazing contacts and friends. For anyone going through a hard time or those just wanting to reach out and have a chat.......this is the place.

I have terrible anxiety when trying to fall asleep, as I too have the type of nightmare you describe. I dont experience it too often (thank goodness), but when they come they are very very hard to forget. I would descride them as an evil entity sitting on my chest pressing down on me while whispering softly to me, I can't move or scream as the harder I try the tighter it presses on me. It is absolutely horrifying because it truly feels like I'm awake during this. When I finally break away and become completely conscious I can never go back to sleep.....too scared it will return.

I had them many times when I was very young, I am now in my 40's and get them probably about 3-4 times a year. I have since discovered that these nightmares are refered to as 'sleep paralysis' and are universal. Every culture has a different name for them, but a common name in western culture is 'The Hag'. There is a lot of information online about this.

As you would agree these are not just everday nightmares, they are extremely frightening and telling you that they are universaly common probably doesn't help you much, but might help you understand them more.

Welcome to PC raspberrygirlmaja. Wishing you only the sweetest of dreams from now on

Q.L