If you’ve ever had the same unsettling dream over and over—whether it’s missing an exam, being chased, or losing your teeth—you’re not alone. Studies show that up to 75% of adults experience recurring dreams, often tied to unresolved emotions and anxieties. But why do these dreams repeat, and what can we do about them?
The Science Behind Recurring Dreams
Recurring dreams tend to surface when the brain fixates on unprocessed emotions. Sleep research suggests that the brain consolidates memories and processes stress during REM sleep, sometimes replaying fears in symbolic form.
- Negative Bias in Dreams: The brain is wired to focus on negative experiences, which is why anxiety-provoking dreams are more common than positive ones.
- Shared Trauma and Dream Patterns: Research during the COVID-19 pandemic revealed that collective stress leads to widespread recurring dreams, evolving from literal anxieties (e.g., being trapped indoors) to more abstract fears (e.g., being lost).
How to Break the Cycle of Recurring Dreams
Are you tired of having the same dream, or are you worried about what is happening in them? Then, there are different strategies you can use to reduce their frequency. We have listed some of the best techniques you can use to achieve this.
- Imagery Rehearsal Therapy (IRT): A proven method where individuals rewrite their recurring nightmares. They often rewrite them with a positive resolution, training the brain to change its dream script.
- Emotional Processing: Addressing stress and anxiety through therapy or mindfulness can reduce the brain’s need to replay distressing themes.
- Better Sleep Hygiene: Maintaining a regular sleep schedule, reducing screen time before bed, and managing stress levels can improve sleep quality and limit emotional spillover into dreams.
Should You Be Worried About Recurring Dreams?
Not necessarily. While some recurring dreams may indicate deeper stress or trauma, they’re usually a sign that the brain is working through unresolved emotions. Rather than fearing them, consider them a clue into what your subconscious is trying to process.
