Did you know that in the late 1700s, a nightmare was considered a disease characterized by the feeling of an overwhelming weight pressing down during sleep? Today we see nightmares as much more part of our daily life, but for what purpose do they exist?
From an evolutionary perspective, nightmares might serve as a mechanism to alert us to potential dangers. For example, repeatedly dreaming of a dangerous situation could serve as a reminder to avoid such scenarios. The brain can thus use nightmares as "dress rehearsals" for dealing with future fears. This explains why children's higher rate of nightmares could reflect their increased vulnerability to threats compared to adults.
However, a study showed that people who experienced nightmares were more fearful when exposed to terrifying images the next day, suggesting that nightmares might increase fear in the short term. The amygdala, an active brain part during nightmares, processes threat responses. In the extreme case, this can be damaging, with up to 5% of the adult population having a "nightmare disorder," where nightmares are frequent and distressing.
Despite their often disturbing nature, nightmares may serve crucial functions in our survival and psychological health. Understanding their origins and functions could lead to more effective treatments for those severely affected by them. By acknowledging that some aspects of life, such as nightmares, may appear negative but exist for a reason, we can approach them with a more enlightened perspective.
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