I often wake up at 3 AM dreaming about a woman I do not know. Why?

Question

Hello doctor,

I do not know whether this query is relevant here, but I have been vexed seeing a woman in my dreams for many years. I do not know what she looks like. I never saw her facial features but noticed that she is of an average physique. She does not leave me, and sometimes I am even scared of her. A peculiar thing about having such a dream is that whenever I wake up terrified, I open my eyes and look at the clock; it is 3 AM without fail. Also, I get this dream when I feel the most peaceful, calm, and relaxed.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I can understand your concern. Even though you see that dream when you feel calm, relaxed, and peaceful, in reality, you probably have some subconscious anxiety, resulting in scary dreams of a particular type. Dreams and anxiety are interrelated, which is why your dreams are causing you distress. If these are recurring and result in distress, I suggest you visit a psychiatrist for counseling. Medicines like tricyclic antidepressants can be used in your case, which will reduce the rapid eye movement sleep, and thus weird dreams will decrease. Thank you.