[carebear0922]

What are good ways to help cope with nightmares or how can i stop them?

[DechanDawa]

I think, maybe just detach from them a bit? I had a terrible nightmare last week. Usually I worry about this and try to figure it out but this time I just let go and did some stuff during the day to calm down. I think maybe try to lower the stress level during the day helps. If it keeps happening I guess talk to a professional. When I lower the stress level during the day it seems my bad dreams decrease. Hope this helps.

[doyoutrustme]

talk about it?

[doyoutrustme]

i find that nightmares are your mind's way of drawing attention to an issue that's troubling you. talking about it can help bring it to the surface.

CareBear, the only way i know how to deal with nightmares is to turn the light on, get up and have a cup of tea. I usually pray and ask God to take away the nightmares. I say out loud, "I refuse to accept or believe these dreams and nightmares." Then i go back to bed. I find positive affirmation said out loud confirms to myself that i don't have to believe some bad thoughts that are invading my subconciousness. I also before i go to bed try not to eat something, cause digesting food can give you weird dreams. I hope this helps. Everyone just has to tell the dreams out loud to go away and leave you alone never to return. It helps, i know it sounds funny but it does work. blessings

[Writer82]

Originally Posted by doyoutrustme

i find that nightmares are your mind's way of drawing attention to an issue that's troubling you. talking about it can help bring it to the surface.

Carebear, I agree with doyoutrustme. Try talking to someone about whatever may be troubling you, or even write about it in a private journal. Try a night time relaxing ritual to clear your head, such a cup of Chamomile tea to help you relax. I keep lavender oil by my bed at night for when my brain just won't shut up. Also, look into some Image Rehearsal Therapy books, or talk to a therapist about it. Another thing is maybe Yoga, or some sort of exercise?

[Bolivar83]

Carebear, hope you find some things that help you; hope you will post what has been effective.

I agree with the other posters: talking with someone, writing down these dreams, looking for a common theme may be helpful. Sometimes I can figure out, days later, what the scary symbolism stands for in my life: challenges, things that need to change, fears, etc.

I've used some of what Omegalamed suggested: turn on a light, remind myself it's just a dream, have something soothing to drink.

I keep a few non-stimulating books and articles on my phone that can help soothe me. (by non-stimulating, I mean I need writing that is not suspenseful, dark, violent - textbooks are great for this!). Even something that can make me laugh - as in DBT, using the "other emotion" skill, where you deliberately try to trigger an opposite emotion (so, something silly that makes me laugh, brings me out of my fears).

Maybe even posting here, or speaking with an understanding friend, who will just speak about neutral/pleasant things to help bring you out of it? I have a friend who I can text if I'm scared. She may not always be up to respond, but I feel better just sending something out to someone who cares.

Take care!

try writing a poem about them,