Breaking the Cycle: How to End Night Terrors at 18

Breaking the Cycle: How to End Night Terrors at 18

Night terrors, also known as sleep terrors, are a common sleep disorder that affects both children and adults. However, for those who experience night terrors at 18 years old, it can be particularly distressing. While most children eventually outgrow night terrors, it can be frustrating and confusing for young adults who are still experiencing them. If you or someone you know is struggling with night terrors at 18, it’s important to understand the causes and potential solutions to end this cycle.

What are Night Terrors?

Night terrors are a type of parasomnia, which is a category of sleep disorders that cause abnormal behaviors during sleep. Unlike nightmares, which occur during REM sleep and are usually remembered, night terrors occur during non-REM sleep and are not remembered. They are characterized by sudden awakenings with intense fear, screaming, and physical agitation. People experiencing night terrors may also have a rapid heart rate, sweating, and confusion. These episodes can last for a few minutes and may happen multiple times throughout the night.

Causes of Night Terrors at 18

While the exact cause of night terrors is unknown, there are several factors that may contribute to their occurrence in young adults. These include:

1. Stress and Anxiety: As young adults navigate the challenges of transitioning into adulthood, they may experience higher levels of stress and anxiety, which can trigger night terrors.

2. Sleep Deprivation: Not getting enough quality sleep can disrupt the sleep cycle and increase the risk of night terrors.

3. Genetics: Night terrors may run in families, suggesting a genetic predisposition to the disorder.

4. Medications: Certain medications, such as antidepressants, can disrupt sleep and increase the likelihood of night terrors.

5. Medical Conditions: Underlying medical conditions, such as sleep apnea or restless leg syndrome, can also contribute to night terrors.

Breaking the Cycle: How to End Night Terrors at 18

Breaking the Cycle of Night Terrors

While night terrors can be distressing, there are steps that can be taken to help end this cycle. Here are some potential solutions to consider:

1. Reduce Stress and Anxiety: Finding healthy ways to cope with stress and anxiety can help reduce the likelihood of night terrors. This can include practicing relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing or meditation, and seeking support from a therapist or counselor.

2. Establish a Consistent Sleep Routine: Maintaining a regular sleep schedule can help regulate the sleep-wake cycle and decrease the occurrence of night terrors. This includes going to bed and waking up at the same time each day, avoiding naps, and creating a relaxing bedtime routine.

3. Address Underlying Medical Conditions: If night terrors are a result of an underlying medical condition, it’s important to seek treatment for that condition. This may involve using a CPAP machine for sleep apnea or taking medication for restless leg syndrome.

4. Avoid Triggers: Certain factors, such as caffeine, alcohol, and heavy meals before bed, can increase the likelihood of night terrors. Avoiding these triggers can help decrease their occurrence.

5. Practice Good Sleep Hygiene: Creating a sleep-friendly environment can promote better sleep and reduce the risk of night terrors. This includes keeping the bedroom cool, dark, and quiet, and avoiding screen time before bed.

Seeking Professional Help

If night terrors continue to disrupt your or your loved one’s life, it may be necessary to seek professional help. A doctor or sleep specialist can evaluate for any underlying medical conditions and provide guidance on managing night terrors. Cognitive-behavioral therapy may also be helpful in addressing any underlying psychological factors contributing to the disorder.

Breaking the cycle of night terrors at 18 can be challenging, but with the right strategies and support, it is possible to overcome this sleep disorder. By addressing underlying causes, practicing good sleep hygiene, and seeking professional help when needed, it is possible to end the cycle of night terrors and improve overall sleep quality.

In summary, night terrors at 18 can be distressing, but there are steps that can be taken to end the cycle. These include reducing stress and anxiety, establishing a consistent sleep routine, addressing underlying medical conditions, avoiding triggers, and seeking professional help when needed. By following these strategies, it is possible to overcome this sleep disorder and improve overall sleep quality.