by Christine Sandor

Created on: May 11, 2009   Last Updated: May 12, 2009

One of the many symptoms of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder is the recurrence of nightmares or night terrors. It is not uncommon for the mind to rework abuse and trauma while in the altered state of sleep in order to attempt to master the horror of the situation. In some cases the nightmares are even a precursor to actual memories of abuse. As with daytime flashbacks, nightmares can be intrusive and disquieting but hold information the awake mind may well have shut away.

Controlling the nightmares is a little more difficult than trying to control flashbacks. In these spontaneous returns to a traumatic episode, one is able to, during waking hours, to attempt to ground oneself in the here and now. Self talk is much easier and one is able to direct thought back to the present, reminding oneself that one is safe, the incident is not happening now and that this is only a memory.

A similar practice can be put into place should abuse memories surface at night in sleep. Nightmares may not wake you, while night terrors usually will. In most cases there is a recollection of the dream content, and in some cases the remaining terror lingers for several moments after waking. It is important that as soon as you are able you begin the self, reassuring talk. The victim within (whether a child or adult survivor of rape and abuse) is in that moment of abuse and terrified. In the majority of cases you were quite alone at the time of the abuse. It is important to reassure your inner child that you are safe.

Begin this practice by looking around the room, finding something to focus on to ground yourself in the here and now. If nightmares have been a nightly ritual it might be good to have some secure, soothing item close by that you can take hold of and focus on should a dream wake you. It is not at all silly to have a favorite soft stuffed animal nearby that you simply can hold. Remember, the child within needs the comfort and reassurance.

Gaining mastery over the dreams comes with time. If you are in regular therapy it is good to discuss the night terrors with your therapist, process the dreams and begin to gain an understanding of what information they are conveying. In some case, temporary use of medication may be warranted. As you work through trauma in therapy, nightmares may become more of an issue for a while and the use of medication can alleviate your symptom. If you feel comfortable writing or journaling about the dream, this is another way to further your understanding and to begin to can control over the nightmares.

Practicing relaxation before sleep is also beneficial. As nightmares become problematic one may begin to fear sleep. Being able to release those anxieties through a process of deep breathing and affirmations can reduce the number and often times the severity of the dreams. By focusing on your breath as you fall asleep, you relax all worries and anxieties. Remind yourself you are safe now, and nothing can hurt you. Ease the concerns of the little one inside by letting your inner child that you are an adult and will protect him/her. While affirming a sound, peaceful sleep, utilize calming imagery.

In the meantime, do continue to work with a therapist. If you do not have one, find one you feel comfortable with. Having someone to share your story with is key to managing the symptoms of PTSD.

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