PTSD and Lucid Dreaming

PTSD mainly develops due to traumatic events. Symptoms include re-experiencing of traumatic events, avoidance of certain things or places, cognitive and mood symptoms, and arousal symptoms (NAMI). Treatment includes CBT, eye movement desensitization and reprocessing therapy, exposure therapy, and group therapy. Medications are also used, which include antidepressants, other medications that are not FDA approved, and marijuana in some states (Drugs.com).

Lucid dreaming can help PTSD. It can help the person process what has happened, similar to exposure therapy, and while it may be overwhelming, knowing they are dreaming provides a level of comfort. It’ll help the patient to properly process the event and feel relief from the prison of their trauma.

Picture by Pierre Bamin