As night falls, many fear facing the monsters that live in their dreams. But what becomes more frightening is when these nightmares transcend into reality. This is what happens with Night Terror, a phenomenon that is quite misunderstood and surrounded by myths and truths.

Here at the Brazilian Society of Hypnosis, we firmly believe in the human capacity for overcoming challenges and, especially, in the unique power of clinical hypnosis to alleviate and treat various health problems, including sleep disorders like Night Terror.

For this reason, we have prepared this comprehensive article to clarify and demystify the subject, helping you better understand the concept, symptoms, causes, and triggers of this phenomenon. Additionally, we will highlight the differences between Night Terror and a common nightmare, provide information about its diagnosis, and discuss options for its treatment and prevention.

Throughout this content, we will also explore how clinical hypnosis has proven to be a powerful tool to help reduce the symptoms of Night Terror. Enjoy this reading and discover a universe of possibilities for treating sleep disorders through hypnosis, grounded in scientific, ethical, and certified methodologies.

Understanding the Concept and Symptoms of Night Terror

Night terror is a sleep disturbance primarily observed in children. Although it resembles a nightmare, it is quite different. While in a nightmare, the child remembers the bad dream, in night terror, they do not recall the episode in the morning.

These episodes occur during the deepest phase of sleep and are characterized by crying, screaming, intense sweating, rapid breathing, and even getting out of bed. This can last from 10 to 30 minutes, and at the end, the person usually goes back to sleep.

Have you ever found yourself questioning: “How is it possible for someone sleeping to show such signs of agitation?” Well, when night terror occurs, the person is in a state of semi-wakefulness, that is, a phase between sleep and alertness that can cause mental confusion.

It is important to note that even after waking up in the middle of an episode, the person cannot remember what happened. This is because these episodes are not dreams but rather a reaction of the central nervous system during the transition from one sleep phase to another.

Now that you understand the concept and symptoms of night terror, it is time to differentiate it from a nightmare. And, more importantly, understand the causes and possible treatments for this phenomenon.

Night Terror and Nightmare: Identifying the Difference

Many confuse “night terror” with “nightmares”, but they are actually distinct phenomena with significant differences. Nightmares occur during the so-called REM sleep, with rapid eye movement, when most dreams occur. Unlike night terror, nightmares are remembered by the individual, who usually wakes up scared, with vivid details of the disturbing dream.

Now, night terror, on the other hand, is a parasomnia (sleep behavior disorder) that occurs during deep sleep, known as non-REM sleep, typically in the first few hours after falling asleep. People who experience night terror rarely remember the episode. They may wake up screaming, panting, and with noticeable physical signs of panic, such as excessive sweating and a racing heart. Moreover, they may appear confused or disoriented, and an attempt to comfort them may even intensify the fear reaction.

Consequently, it is crucial to understand that these two phenomena are different not only in terms of the sleep cycle they occur in but also in the aspect of event recollection and response to comfort attempts. Thus, this differentiation becomes fundamental for how each of these phenomena is approached in the treatment process.

Causes and Triggers of Night Terror

In the quest to unravel “night terror”, it is essential to understand its causes and triggers. Various research indicates a probable genetic origin for the condition. People who have relatives who suffered from the disorder are more likely to develop it. This suggests a hereditary component in the manifestation of night terror.

Besides the genetic factor, situations of excessive stress can trigger night terror episodes. This includes drastic changes in daily life, such as changing jobs, cities, or schools, as well as cases of personal losses, such as the death of a loved one or the end of a relationship.

It is also worth remembering that excessive consumption of alcohol and psychoactive substances can be a trigger for night terror. Physical illnesses, especially those that interfere with the nervous system, can also be catalysts.

Another important aspect is the amount of sleep. Both sleep deprivation and excess can trigger night terror episodes.

Therefore, “night terror” is multifactorial. Its occurrence can be influenced by a large number of factors, making its prevention a challenge. But understanding these causes and triggers is the first step to effectively dealing with the condition.

The Diagnostic Process for Night Terror

The diagnosis of night terror is often made through reports from the patient or those close to them. It is common for the diagnosis to be based on a detailed clinical evaluation, and it may also include behavioral observations and analyses of sleep patterns.

Night terror can be confused with other sleep disorders, such as nightmares or sleepwalking, so it is important to understand the specific symptoms for an accurate diagnosis. For example, night terror episodes are usually followed by amnesia, meaning the person who suffers does not remember what happened. In the case of nightmares, the individual usually remembers the experience.

Additionally, the diagnosis may include a test called polysomnography. This test monitors various body functions during sleep, such as brain waves, eye movements, heart rate, and breathing.

It is worth emphasizing that, for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment, it is crucial to seek help from a mental health professional or a doctor specialized in sleep disorders.

Treatment and Prevention Options for Night Terror

There are several treatment options for night terror, depending on the severity of the problem. Although night terror can be very frightening for observers, this episode usually does not harm the person experiencing it. So, in many cases, treatment may not be necessary. However, if night terror is frequent or causes secondary problems, such as sleep deprivation or risk of injury, treatment may be indicated.

One of the primary options is psychological counseling, which is often the first line of defense. This can help the person learn to deal with stress or anxiety, which are possible causes of night terrors. The goal is to help reduce the occurrence of these frightening episodes.

Additionally, improving sleep hygiene can also be helpful. This may involve creating a consistent sleep routine, avoiding stimulating activities before bed, and ensuring a sleep environment that is conducive to good rest.

In some cases, when night terror episodes are severe and frequent, medications may be prescribed to help control them. However, this is usually the last option when other forms of treatment have not been effective.

Prevention can include avoiding excessive alcohol consumption, having a balanced diet, and engaging in physical exercise. Stress should also be controlled, as it is one of the main triggers of night terrors. In short, there is no one-size-fits-all solution; the most important thing is to talk to a healthcare professional to find the best method for each case.

How Clinical Hypnosis Can Assist in Treating Night Terror

The benefits of clinical hypnosis are widely recognized in various fields of health, and the treatment of night terror is no exception. This method expresses its effectiveness through the enhancement of conventional treatments, focusing on reducing stress and anxiety, which often exacerbate the symptoms of this phenomenon.

When entering a hypnotic state, the individual reaches a high degree of relaxation, essential for controlling night terror crises. In this state, hypnosis allows access to less accessible mental processes, contributing to identifying events or thoughts that may be causing the episodes.

It is necessary to emphasize that hypnosis does not promise miracles. It is a scientifically based tool that aids in promoting emotional health when used ethically and responsibly by qualified health professionals. Therefore, hypnosis is not the treatment itself but a means of enhancing existing treatments for night terror.

In summary, when dealing with this type of problem, clinical hypnosis can be a valuable ally. Its potential in reducing anxiety and stress, as well as the possibility of exploring events or thoughts that may be impacting the patient’s emotional well-being, demonstrates how relevant it can be when applied ethically and responsibly.

Conclusion

In conclusion, we reaffirm the importance of understanding and respecting the complexity of sleep phenomena, such as “night terror”. Throughout this article, we have unveiled myths and truths about this phenomenon, demystifying some misconceptions and providing new perspectives. As health professionals, we have an ethical responsibility to ensure an informed and scientifically based approach to help people suffering from such disorders.

Studying and understanding “night terror” is the first step to effectively helping people who suffer from this problem. Clinical hypnosis emerges as a powerful tool to treat the traumas and stress that often accompany these sleep disorders – once again highlighting the immense potential of hypnosis as a tool in our efforts to promote health and emotional well-being.

Now, if you are interested in learning scientific hypnosis to apply professionally, to enhance your results in your current profession, or even to have a new profession, I invite you to learn about the training and postgraduate studies in evidence-based hypnosis from the Brazilian Society of Hypnosis, a serious institution committed to the quality and effectiveness of hypnosis practice in Brazil. Take this moment to take a step forward in your career and make a difference in the lives of people suffering from “night terror”.

Click here to learn more about the available courses and training. We look forward to welcoming you to our community of professionals committed to excellence in the field of clinical hypnosis.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the relationship between night terror and clinical hypnosis?

Clinical hypnosis can be used as an effective tool in treating “night terror”. It can help access and treat the traumas and stress that often accompany these disorders, providing relief and better sleep quality.

Can clinical hypnosis completely cure night terror?

While clinical hypnosis can be an effective tool in treating “night terror”, it is important to note that each case is individual. The effectiveness of the treatment depends on various factors, including the origin of the problem and how the patient responds to therapy. Therefore, it is always recommended to seek a qualified professional to obtain the best results.

What causes night terror?

Night terror is generally triggered by stress, trauma, and sleep deprivation. However, the exact cause may vary depending on the individual. It is a complex condition that requires a comprehensive approach to treatment.

What are the symptoms of night terror?

The symptoms of “night terror” can vary, but generally involve episodes of screaming, crying, or intense agitation during sleep. Additionally, the person may appear confused or disoriented upon waking and may have difficulty returning to sleep.

How can I learn more about clinical hypnosis and night terror?

There are several resources available to learn more about clinical hypnosis and “night terror”. We recommend seeking courses and training focused on the practice of hypnosis, certified by serious institutions committed to the quality and effectiveness of this practice. This training will allow you to understand the phenomenon more deeply and how to use it effectively in the treatment of sleep disorders.

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