Night Terrors vs. Nightmares: When Sleep Disturbances Signal a Mental Health Concern in Adults

Sleep disturbances can be more than just a bad night’s rest. For many adults in Lilburn, Georgia, frequent nightmares or night terrors may signal an underlying mental health concern.

Nightmares vs. Night Terrors: What’s the Difference?

Nightmares occur during REM sleep and are often vividly remembered. Adults usually wake up feeling anxious or fearful and can recall the dream clearly. These are commonly linked to anxiety, depression, PTSD, stress, or medication side effects.

Night terrors, on the other hand, happen during deep non-REM sleep. Adults may scream, sweat, or appear panicked but have little or no memory of the episode afterward. Night terrors are often associated with severe anxiety, trauma, sleep deprivation, or other psychiatric conditions.

When Sleep Issues Signal a Mental Health Concern

Occasional nightmares are normal. However, frequent or intense episodes may be a sign of:

• Anxiety or panic disorders

• PTSD or unresolved trauma

• Mood disorders

• Chronic stress or emotional dysregulation

If sleep disturbances affect your daily functioning, mood, or concentration, professional psychiatric care may be needed.

How Jehovah’s Behavioral Care Can Help

At Jehovah’s Behavioral Care in Lilburn, GA, we evaluate the root causes of sleep disturbances. Care may include:

• Comprehensive psychiatric evaluations

• Medication management when appropriate

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) strategies

• Personalized, evidence-based treatment plans

CBT is especially effective in addressing anxiety, trauma responses, and unhealthy sleep patterns.

Take the Next Step Toward Better Sleep

Persistent night terrors or nightmares don’t have to control your life. With the right psychiatric support, restful sleep is possible.

Jehovah’s Behavioral Care proudly serves adults in Lilburn and surrounding Georgia communities.