Definition
Bad dreams that evoke intense fear, anxiety, or terror, usually waking the person. They occur during REM sleep and are typically remembered in detail. Can be linked to stress, trauma, and medications.
Related Terms
Night Terror / Sleep Terror
A sleep disorder occurring during deep sleep, accompanied by intense fear, screaming, and sometimes sleepwalking. Usually not remembered. Folk traditions describe it as an entity pressing on the chest.
REM Sleep
Rapid Eye Movement — the sleep stage characterized by rapid eye movements. The majority of dreams occur during this phase. The brain is highly active while the body experiences temporary paralysis.
Recurring Dream
The repeated appearance of the same or very similar themes in dreams. Usually points to unresolved emotional issues or unconscious messages. The dream tends to stop when the issue is resolved.