Weird Nightmare Trigger Has an Easy Fix
By
Dr. Scott Olson, ND
Posted November 11, 2024
To all our veterans – we pause today to express our profound gratitude for your service and sacrifice. Your unwavering commitment to defending our nation’s values represents the very best of America.
Nightmares happen during REM sleep, which usually occurs halfway through the night. They’re typically brief, but they can make it difficult to fall back asleep.
Nightmares are more common during childhood. But as any adult can tell you, we have them too.
However, if you’ve been having more nightmares lately… your social life might be to blame.
Surprisingly, new research reveals that loneliness doesn’t just affect your waking hours—it could be haunting your dreams, too.
The new study published in the Journal of Psychology uncovered something disturbing. It found that loneliness isn’t just making you feel bad during the day… it’s following you into your sleep.
Scientists discovered that people who are lonely experience more…
- frequent nightmares
- intense bad dreams
- interrupted sleep
But here’s what makes this finding PARTICULARLY troubling…
It turns out, our bodies are actually PROGRAMMED to react this way when we’re isolated. It’s like an ancient alarm system warning us to reconnect with others.
The problem is, in today’s world, this “alarm” can end up doing more harm than good.
It’s a vicious cycle starting with you being lonely, so you sleep poorly. Then, because you’re tired, you’re less likely to socialize. It’s a revolving door that can be hard to escape.
The researchers found that loneliness triggers changes in our bodies that…
- Increase stress levels
- Heighten alertness
- Lead to more worried thinking
- Disrupt normal sleep patterns
This is particularly concerning for seniors, who often face issues like living alone, limited mobility, loss of longtime friends, and reduced social opportunities.
But there’s also some GOOD NEWS…
Breaking this cycle might be easier than you think. You don’t need to become a social butterfly overnight. Even small steps toward connection can make a big difference.
Try these simple ways to boost your social connections:
- Join a local book club (there are even online ones)
- Take a class (art, cooking, anything!)
- Volunteer at your church or community center
- Try square dancing or other group activities
- Attend community events
- Join a walking group
- Participate in senior center activities
The key is to find something that connects you with others regularly.
Remember that those nightmares could be your body’s way of saying, “Hey, you need people!” Don’t ignore the message.
Instead of lying awake worrying about bad dreams, why not use that energy to plan a social activity for tomorrow?
And if the nightmares persist or you’re feeling overwhelmed by loneliness, don’t hesitate to reach out to a healthcare provider. Sometimes, we all need a little extra help, and that’s okay!
P.S. Dreaming of better sleep? Your gut holds the key.
Source:
Floyd, K., Hesse, C., Ray, C. D., & Mikkelson, A. C. (2024). Interpersonal Loneliness Predicts the Frequency and Intensity of Nightmares: An Examination of Theoretic Mechanisms. The Journal of Psychology, 1–21.
Written By Dr. Scott Olson, ND
Nearly 25 years ago, failed mainstream medical treatments left Dr. Olson in constant pain – and his health in ruins. And that’s when he did something REVOLUTIONARY. He began his career in medicine – and dedicated his life to uncovering the true, underlying causes of disease.
Through his innovative medical practices in Tennessee and Colorado, Dr. Olson has helped cure countless seniors from across America of arthritis… heart disease… diabetes… and even cancer. All without risky prescription drugs or painful surgeries.
View More Free Articles
Widespread “Forever” Chemicals Boost Cancer Risk?!
We’ve known for years that the chemicals lurking in many everyday products aren’t as harmless as we once believed… However, new research reveals an unsettling truth about one specific group of compounds that could be flowing straight from your tap into your waterglass. And according to a new study, they could be raising your cancer...
Mailbag: Ease Peripheral Neuropathy Nerve Pain NATURALLY
“What is your position on peripheral neuropathy?” —On Pins and Needles Hi Pins, Peripheral neuropathy is a challenging condition that affects the nerves outside the brain and spinal cord, often causing pain, numbness, and weakness in the hands and feet. Many folks describe neuropathies as feeling like pins and needles, tingling, or burning. When I...
Pancreas Protector Discovered in the VITAMIN Aisle
Most of us are concerned about our heart health. We also take steps to protect our brains. Even our kidneys and livers get some attention. But the pancreas? It’s seldom given a second thought—or at least, not until something goes wrong. And when it does, it can be serious business. The pancreas is vital for...
Study Reveals New Health Risk in Ultra-Processed Food
New research reveals that ultra-processed foods are even WORSE for our health than we imagined. And the problem isn’t just the sugar, salt, and artificial ingredients. There’s another sneaky threat lurking in convenience foods. And it could multiply their health risks… A recent study published in the journal Globalization and Health uncovered an alarming problem...
A Simple Vitamin Solution Combats Parkinson’s
Our understanding of the gut-brain connection has grown rapidly in recent years. So, it’s no surprise that scientists suspect a connection between gut health and the development of Parkinson’s. However, new research is adding more details to the picture. A groundbreaking study revealed two common nutrients are often critically low in folks with Parkinson’s. This...
The “Cellular Wildfire” Fueling Long-COVID Revealed
A significant number of folks continue to feel unwell after supposedly “recovering” from COVID-19. I have some exciting news if you’re one of the millions battling long-COVID. Scientists from the University of Queensland just uncovered a crucial piece of the puzzle—and all signs point to inflammation as the culprit. Let me explain… ***** This groundbreaking...
Top 9 Nutrients Needed to Maintain Good Health
Let’s face it… the supplement aisle at your local grocery store is kind of overwhelming. Standing there staring at rows upon rows of colorful bottles, each promising better health, increased energy, or miraculous benefits can leave you feeling downright dizzy. With so many options, how can you possibly know which nutrients are truly essential for...
The Mini-Movement Revolution Beats Traditional Workouts
I get it… not everyone loves exercise. But you don’t have to become a gym rat to get major health benefits. New research reveals that those quick trips to take the garbage out or go to the bathroom might be even MORE valuable than your scheduled exercise time. In fact, these mini-movement breaks could be...
Mailbag: Natural Fixes for Stubborn Toenail Fungus
“Is there an actual cure for toenail fungus?” —Feeling Frustrated If you are frustrated because you’ve been battling toenail fungus, I’m not surprised. Toenail fungus is incredibly difficult to treat. But don’t give up. With a combination of natural treatments and patience, relief is possible. Here’s what’s worked for my patients in the past… Tea...
Science Reveals Late-Night Anxiety is REAL (Here’s the Fix)
Ever notice how your problems seem WORSE at 3 AM? It turns out those middle-of-the-night anxiety-filled thoughts aren’t just in your head. Research reveals that your brain actually functions differently after midnight. In fact, what goes on during those dark hours could be sabotage your sleep and your decisions. But before you reach for a...