Originally Posted by
Eccentrics
*le bump & le question* (because I don't want to make a whole new thread)
Does anybody have any advice for reducing/eliminating nightmares?
Mentally, I feel like I am over the things that happened to me. I'm getting more and more comfortable by the day and less inclined to check things often to be safe. Yet, on random occasions, I will still have very frightening nightmares about it that leave me waking up at stupid-o'clock with my heart racing. There's no pre-warning at all, I don't necessarily feel more paranoid the day before, it just happens and afterwards I feel like I'm back at square one- needing to check I'm safe often. I don't know why I still get them, and I don't want them anymore.
There are a few things that can be done:
Before you sleep: Have a routine. Take a warm bath, read a book or magazine that is neutral or soothing (no mysteries, horror or other upsetting material). Make sure your room is at a comfortable temperature. Make your bed comfortable and inviting. This may help reduce nightmares, and make things less frightening/disorenting when you do wake up from one.
Immediately after a nightmare: Don't attempt to go back to sleep right away. Turn on lights, turn on music or sound, check your closet, whatever you need to feel safe and oriented. Soothe and ground yourself however else you need to. Then distract yourself, again with something quiet and neutral like a book. Go back to sleep when you feel tired, when you feel ready.
In general: Actively resisting the nightmares (staying up late, beating yourself up, etc.) gives them power they don't deserve. You will always wake up, they will always end, and they can't hurt you. Remember how safe you feel during the day--that's what matters.
Good luck, take care of yourself :).