
The reason why you are having negative dreams
Are you dreaming about death, the loss of a job or a loved one? If you find yourself increasingly having negative dreams, here’s what you should know. Clinical psychologist Seema Hingorani explains why many people are having anxiety dreams.
Stress and anxiety is taking a toll on people
The COVID-19 pandemic has introduced a lot of uncertainty in people’s lives. There is a lot of negative news that is doing the rounds. Exposure to constant negativity leads to negative thoughts. This in turn makes people more anxious and stressed and many end up bottling up their emotions. Seema explains that when we do not vocalise our feelings and thoughts, dreams are a natural way how our mind processes them.
Negative thinking leads to negative dreams
Many people are dreaming about death, loss of a job or about getting COVID-19 as they are constantly thinking and talking negatively. Even though things may not be so bad in reality, they are only reacting to their dreams. This also affects their overall mood.
What you can do to avoid anxiety dreams
To start with you have to identify if you are an anxious person. Are you constantly worrying about something? Are you constantly restless and anxious? Do you suffer from mild body aches and are always panicking when things don’t go according to your plan. All of these can be signs of anxiety. Here’s what you can do about it.
- Meditate and turn off gadgets before bed time
Half an hour before going to bed turn off your gadgets and lights. Listening to calming sounds and meditating can also help you sleep better.
- Avoid watching films or shows or reading content that is dark
You may not realise it but if you only watch dark and disturbing content or only read about negative news. It’s going to be there at the back of your mind. You are likely to dream about it. Hence, it makes sense to avoid viewing such content before going to bed.
- Eat foods that help you sleep better
Avoid coffee, chocolates and instead consume warm water or milk that helps you sleep better.
- Bathe with essential oils
It helps to calm your mind and body, helping you get a good night’s sleep.
Doing all of the above can put your mind at ease and also improve the quality of sleep you get. This in turn will also ensure you have better dreams.

