On a nighty basis my sister has multiple bad or frustrating…

Do you have any idea what is happening in her dreams?

Do you know why the dreams frustrate her? Do they upset her? Keep her awake? or something else?

No worries at all.

Just type your information here when you have it, and I will respond as soon as possible.

Thank you so much for the helpful update.

I have some information and suggestions for you to help manage these bad dreams.

Treatment

Treatment for bad dreams isn't necessary, unless they are causing distress or sleep disturbance.

The cause of the nightmare disorder helps determine treatment. Treatment options may include:

• Medical treatment. If the bad dreams are associated with a medical condition (eg physical pain), treatment is aimed at the medical problem.
• Stress or anxiety treatment. If a mental health condition, such as stress or anxiety, seems to be contributing to the bad dreams, the doctor may suggest stress-reduction and relaxation techniques
• Imagery rehearsal - this involves talking about the dream while awake, and changing the ending to make it more positive  so that it's no longer threatening. Then the dreamer rehearses the new ending in their mind.
• Medication - may be used for severe nightmares.

*Lifestyle and home remedies

Here are some practical strategies to try at home:

• Establish a regular, relaxing routine before bedtime. A consistent bedtime routine is important. Do quiet, calming activities — such as reading books, doing puzzles or soaking in a warm bath — before bed. Meditation, deep breathing or relaxation exercises may help, too. Also, make the bedroom comfortable and quiet for sleep.
• Offer lots of reassurance. Be patient, calm and reassuring. If the dreamer awakens from a nightmare, respond quickly and soothe the dreamer at the bedside. This can prevent future nightmares.
• Talk about the dream, if possible. As: kWhat happened? Who was in the dream? What made it scary? Then remind the dreamer that the dreams aren't real and can't hurt you.
• Rewrite the ending. Imagine a happy ending for the nightmare. you can even be creative and, "talk" back to the characters in the dream..
• Practice some simple stress-relief activities, such as deep breathing or relaxation
• Provide comfort measures. The dreamer might feel more secure if he or she sleeps with a favorite blanket, pillow or other comfort object. Leave the door open at night so that the dreamer won't feel alone.
•  Keep a night light on in the room. If the dreamer wakes up during the night, the light can be reassuring.

If bad dreams cause ongoing problems, it is best to  see a doctor.

I really hope that these ideas and strategies are helpful. Please choose the ones that sounds best for you.

Do you have any follow-up questions at all?

Dr Julia