Hello Dec, REM sleep that involves dreaming is an essential part of how our body/mind sorts things out. It could be that you have not been sleeping well lately and this can cause waking-dreams, and yes they can seem very real. Dreaming consists of past/present and our hopes and fears. Going to bed in a state of anxiety will not help and will come out in nightmares. People who suffer from PTSD have a lot of nightmares as this is the way the brain is trying to sort out the fears and trauma.

Try not to think/worry about the nightmare too much, it was a nightmare and in reality now you are safe. Make sure tonight that you go to bed as relaxed as possible. Before dropping off to sleep purposely think of lovely things or think about how YOU would like that nightmare to end.

Recurrent nightmares that are connected to trauma need proper treatment with a therapist.