Nightmares signal the risk of mental illness

(British scientists) warns that nightmares that often occur in childhood can also be an early sign of neurological problems in adulthood.

A new study published in Sleep Journal found that most children have nightmares during sleep, however, if nightmares persist, it could be a sign of a disorder. more serious.

Having night-time fears, expressed in actions such as screaming or kicking your arms and legs while sleeping also leads to high risk of neurological problems.

YoungMinds said it was an important study to help detect mental illness early.

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The study tracked nearly 6,800 children, from a young age to 12 years old.

The parents of these children were asked about their children's sleep problems frequently, and at the end of the study, people continued to examine and evaluate their neurological experiences as delusions. , hallucinations or other controlled thoughts.

Research also shows that most children experience nightmares for some time, but 37% of parents report problems with their children's sleep for years in a row. Also according to the study, 1 in 10 children who encounter horrors during sleep are aged 3 to 7 years old.

The team at Warwrick University said that there is a long-term problem with nightmares and a fear of sleeping that is linked to a higher risk of mental health problems later on.

Professor Dieter Wolke, a member of the research team, replied in an interview with BBC: 'Meeting nightmares is relatively common, like night fears. However, if they persist after that, it must be one of the disrespectful disorders'.

The relationship between sleep problems and mental disorders is unclear. Some hypotheses suggest that being bullied or having an emotional shock with children can also cause both. That means, treating nightmare problems may not prevent psychological problems.

However, nightmares can act as serious signs of early warning about problems during adulthood.

Professor Wolke said regular sleep and quality are the key to resolving raging nightmares . 'Improving sleep is extremely important, meaning children need to sleep more often, as well as avoiding psychological stimulating films before they go to sleep.'

Night fear often occurs at specific times, parents can prevent and manage them by waking them up at short intervals.

Lucie Russell, campaign director of YoungMinds adds: 'This research has practical implications, because what we can do can help thousands of children escape the effects of early neurological signs. Early interventions help them avoid the attachment of mental illnesses to adulthood. '