Dreams

I have been reluctant to share this experience, but I now feel that it may be helpful to others. Then why the reluctance? This night terror was so vivid and horrific that I did not want to dwell on it and visualize it again. But here it is for those who may have experienced something similar, or I am asking for an evaluation.

This night terror occurred several weeks ago. Thankfully, my recall of the setting of the dream is somewhat fuzzy. I do suffer from night terrors and parasomnia. I also suffer from chronic PTSD, anxiety, and depression. The VA prescribes several different medications, and I also intake CDB/THC before bed. The combination of the drugs and the CDB/THC has dramatically reduced my nightmares and parasomnia.

I am 65 years old, a retired, disabled veteran. I do not work, but I am involved in non-profit endeavors. I am a pastor, an author, and a podcast host.

I try to maintain a pre-sleep schedule and am careful about psychological or emotional stimulation/triggers before bed. I do not recall any adverse stimuli before bed on this particular evening.

I recall the dream being not combat-related, but I found myself in a very dark place—black, inescapable, like being inside a cacoon—whereby I could extend myself outward and feel a membrane. The liquid blackness enveloped me, and inexplicable creatures extended themselves from the outside inward. I could not escape.

I am afflicted with sleep apnea and wear a CPAP mask. I likely stopped breathing; I recall in the nightmare being unable to dream. I awake screaming and thrashing about. My wife awakened me fully.

I have had violent experiences of parasomnia. This experience was so terrifying. I am bothered writing about it. I have not had a similar night of terror since. Thank the Lord.