I have horrible nightmares every night. What should I do?

Question

I have two or three really bad nightmares every night, and I don't know what to do about them. I've had them for years, but I don't know why. I take EffexorXR for anxiety, and I know that can cause vivid dreams, but I've only been on it for about a year and a half. I've looked for tips to stop nightmares, and I've tried a few, like talking about them, writing them down, and trying to think of happy endings for them, but they haven't worked. I rarely have recurring nightmares; they're different every night and I really hate them. Does anyone know a way to make them stop?

Answer 1

I wonder, what is it you watch or listen to on a daily basis? What is one of the last things you do before bed? (not including brushing hair, teeth, etc) Are you possibly eating something just before bed? Before this can be answered effectively, alot more has to be established. In answering your question, it will come from a spiritual point of view, not a psychological one.

Answer 2

Have you ever heard of the power of gems? They say by wearing a peridot, or ruby to bed at night, it will keep you nightmare free! I had nightmares for a while, and I tryed wearing the peridot, which is the pale green stone. It worked! Also take to bed with you a book that is a happy type of book that makes you feel good, or laugh, to keep your mind from thinking of nightmares. Everytime you start to think that you may have a nightmare, think of something in your life that has made you happy, or something funny. Dont dwell on anything at all that is negative, just happy thoughts, and try that gemstone. I really hope this helps. I know sometimes if your going through a rough time in your life, no matter if it is financial, or having problems at work, or family problems, try not to take those problems to bed with you. Instead try to keep your mind on lighter happier things, because at night, you cant do anything about your problems anyway, my as well get a good nights sleep! Talk to your doctor also about the effexor, and ask him if it could cause the nightmares, if so, he may be able to change the medication. Hope this helps you some, and have a good night!

Answer 3

I wish I did; recurring nightmares can really tire one out. I hope the Rx helps. I would have suggested beginning a journal, and writing down as much as I could of each episode, even if it's not anything more than a word, or scene. If you have access to a counselor, some one-on- one counseling could be helpful, but may not stop the episodes.
Good luck and have a Merry Christmas

Answer 4

Try reading light hearted material for about 30 minutes before you go to sleep. Check on your diet and don't eat too much before bed either. No caffeine after 3 pm or cut way down at least and reduce sugar consumption as well as grease. If you don't want to read, you could try sudoku or word find puzzles to give your mind a little work out that's bland before you sleep. Also check your sleep hygiene, you can look it up in wikipedia or dozens of sites on the web. There may be suggestions for you there too. Also, try taking mid evening walks. Good luck.

Answer 5

SERIOUSLY get off the meds...i took meds for a little bit and had HORRIBLE nightmares....i got off the meds and was fine... but i still have them just not as much, and i think its cause i when through SO MUCH physical abuse a a kid,,,try sleeping with someone you really love and care about as well, it helped me. but in all seriousness GET OFF THE MEDS. hope this helps

Answer 6

I think Effexor can cause the nightmares, I would change medicines, at least discuss it with your doctor...good Luck!

Answer 7

Have you talked to your doctor about this? Maybe you need a medication change or dosage adjustment.