She Strengthens

Uncovering the Mysteries of Night Terrors in Adults

What Are Night Terrors?

Night terrors are recurring episodes where you may cry out, move around erratically, or show other signs of distress while you sleep. These episodes can be distressing, not just for you, but also for your partner or roommates who may witness them. Although night terrors are more common in children, an estimated 1 to 2 percent of adults experience them as well.

The Causes of Night Terrors in Adults

Scientists are still unsure about the exact causes of night terrors in adults. However, mental health conditions, breathing issues, and other factors that impact sleep may play a role. For instance, adults with night terrors may be more likely to experience depression, anxiety, or bipolar disorder. Additionally, respiratory conditions like sleep apnea could potentially increase the risk of having night terrors.

Symptoms of Night Terrors

Night terrors often begin with sitting up in bed and crying out. These episodes can last from 45 to 90 minutes, although the timing can vary greatly. Other symptoms may include:

• Screaming or thrashing
• Breathing rapidly
• Staring blankly
• Fast heart rate
• Feeling flushed or sweaty
• Appearing confused or disoriented
• Jumping or running around
• Becoming aggressive if someone tries to stop you

What’s the Difference Between Night Terrors and Nightmares?

Night terrors and nightmares are often confused with each other, but they have distinct differences. During a night terror, you’re unlikely to wake up, whereas you’re more likely to wake up during a nightmare. Night terrors typically happen during non-rapid eye movement (NREM) sleep, while nightmares usually occur during REM sleep. Additionally, your eyes will often be open during night terrors, whereas they won’t during nightmares.

Managing Night Terrors in Adults

While there’s no guaranteed way to stop night terrors, creating a healthy sleep routine can help. This includes:

• Banning blue light at night
• Relaxing and unwinding before bed
• Creating a quiet, comfortable, and dark sleep environment
• Limiting caffeine and alcohol
• Reserving your bed for sleep and sex

Additionally, seeking support from loved ones, addressing underlying stress and trauma, and practicing mindfulness techniques like meditation and yoga can also help alleviate night terrors.

Supporting a Partner with Night Terrors

If your partner experiences night terrors, it’s essential to offer nonphysical comfort and support. Avoid waking them up during an episode, as they may become confused or violent. Instead, talk to them in a calm, quiet voice and gently suggest they return to bed. The day after the incident, offer support and understanding, and encourage them to track episodes in a sleep journal or seek professional help.

When to Seek Professional Help

Night terrors don’t always require treatment, but if you experience frequent episodes that negatively impact your life or could harm you or someone else, it’s essential to seek professional help. A sleep specialist, doctor, or therapist can help you find relief and develop strategies to manage your night terrors.

The Bottom Line

Night terrors are complex and distressing episodes that can affect adults as well as children. While the exact causes are still unknown, addressing underlying mental health conditions, practicing mindfulness, and creating a healthy sleep routine can help alleviate these episodes. If you’re struggling with night terrors, don’t hesitate to seek professional help and support.