Nightmares and night terrors may easily be confused with one another because they share some similar features. They both can be frightening and cause trouble going back to sleep and/or staying asleep. But it's important to understand the difference between them as they are two different events. This can really impact how they are both treated as well. Continue reading to find out more about these two different sleeping events and what do do about them.
Many of us have had nightmares, vivid dreams that cause feelings of fear, terror, anxiety, etc. Especially vivid or terrifying nightmares usually result in abruptly awakening from REM sleep with distinct memories of the dream. Returning to sleep after these experiences can be difficult and the nightmares are often remembered the next morning as well.
Have you ever witnessed your child or spouse's nightmare or night terror? It may have been just as scary for you as it was for them. The words "helpless" and "heartbreaking" are often used to describe these episodes. Being able to distinguish the difference between a nightmare and a night terror will help you better understand what is happening with your loved one and how you can help. Here are the differences between night terrors and nightmares.
We’ve all had nightmares, and it’s pretty clear what they are: vivid dreams that cause feelings of fear, terror, anxiety, etc. Especially vivid or terrifying nightmares usually result an abruptly awakening from REM sleep with distinct memories of the dream. Returning to sleep after these experience can be difficult and the nightmares are often remembered the next morning as well.
Have you been witness to your child or spouse's nightmare or night terror? It may have been just as scary for you as it was for them. The words "helpless" and "heartbreaking" come to mind. Being able to distinguish the difference between a nightmare and a night terror will help you better understand: