The release of the recent movie Inception has created quite a buzz in regards to dreams and sleep. We are all very fascinated by dreams, which is evident by the numerous books dedicated to dream interpretations. Interestingly enough in the world of sleep one of the common questions asked is will you be able to "see" my dreams the night of testing. Although we are able to monitor the stages of one's sleep using EEG, as well as determine the length of time spent in REM (the dream stage), we are in no way able to visualize one's dreams.
So this brings me to the topic of what are dreams? There seems to be alot of debate on this subject. Some scientists believe that dreams are a compilation of emotions throughout the day that become interconnected with past experiences and emotions upon sleep. It can then be argued that nightmares are an interruption to the resolution of emotions. Thus leaving us with a recurrence until we are able to successfully maintain sleep and resolve the emotions attached to the nightmare.
Some Psychologists like to use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to resolve/overcome nightmares and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). They will take elements of the nightmare and change them to a nonthreatening nature. For example, if someone is being chased in their dream, they may change the threatening figure to balloons following them.
If you are someone that suffers from nightmares, the first line of defense is to write it down. Keep a pad and pen at bedside, upon waking from the nightmare write down all the elements you are able to recall. If your nightmares are persistent and interrupt your quality of sleep meet with your physician to determine the best course of action specific to your needs.
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