Researchers at Oregon State University have found that lonely individuals are more prone to experiencing nightmares. This study is significant as both loneliness and sleep disturbances are recognized as serious public health concerns, linked to higher risks of heart disease, stroke, and premature mortality. The findings of this study were published in the Journal of Psychology.
The researchers point out that stress is a key factor linking loneliness to the frequency and intensity of nightmares. Other factors that may connect loneliness to nightmares include rumination (worry and anxiety) and hyperarousal, which describes a state of heightened alertness and focus. Similar to stress, rumination and hyperarousal are psychological states associated with loneliness.
These findings not only reveal the potential negative impacts of interpersonal isolation but also align with evolutionary theories of loneliness, which propose that a sense of belonging is crucial for human survival.
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