Understanding Night Terrors in Young Adults: Supporting Your 18-Year-Old Daughter
Watching your child struggle with night terrors can feel unsettling at any age, but when your 18-year-old daughter experiences them, it’s natural to wonder why this is happening—and how to help. Night terrors, often associated with younger children, are less discussed in teenagers and young adults. Yet, they’re more common than many realize. Let’s explore what night terrors are, why they might persist into early adulthood, and practical ways to support your daughter through this challenge.
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What Are Night Terrors?
Night terrors (or sleep terrors) are intense episodes of fear or panic during sleep. Unlike nightmares, which occur during REM sleep and are often remembered, night terrors happen during non-REM sleep stages. A person experiencing them may scream, sweat, or appear frantic but usually has no memory of the event afterward. For parents, witnessing these episodes can be distressing, especially when they involve an older teenager who “should have outgrown” them.
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Why Do Night Terrors Happen in Older Teens?
While night terrors are most common in children aged 3–12, they can persist or even emerge for the first time in late adolescence. Several factors could explain this:
1. Stress and Anxiety: The transition to adulthood—college applications, financial pressures, or relationship dynamics—can trigger emotional strain. Stress disrupts sleep cycles, making night terrors more likely.
2. Sleep Deprivation: Busy schedules (work, studies, socializing) often lead to irregular sleep patterns. Fatigue lowers the brain’s ability to regulate sleep stages effectively.
3. Underlying Health Conditions: Issues like migraines, sleep apnea, or hormonal changes (common in late teens) may contribute.
4. Genetics: A family history of sleep disorders increases susceptibility.
5. Medications or Substance Use: Certain prescriptions, caffeine, or alcohol can interfere with sleep architecture.
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How to Recognize a Night Terror
Night terrors are distinct from nightmares or panic attacks. Key signs include:
– Sudden waking with a scream or gasp
– Rapid heartbeat, sweating, or dilated pupils
– Confusion or inability to communicate during the episode
– No memory of the event the next morning
If your daughter seems disoriented or agitated but falls back asleep quickly, it’s likely a night terror. Documenting details (time, duration, triggers) can help identify patterns.
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Supporting Your Daughter: Practical Strategies
1. Prioritize Sleep Hygiene
Encourage consistent sleep and wake times, even on weekends. Create a calming pre-bed routine: reading, light stretching, or listening to soothing music. Limit screen time an hour before bed—blue light disrupts melatonin production.
2. Reduce Stressors
Open conversations about her worries—academic pressure, social conflicts, or future plans—can alleviate bottled-up anxiety. Mindfulness practices like deep breathing or journaling may also help.
3. Create a Safe Sleep Environment
Ensure her bedroom is cool, dark, and quiet. Consider white noise machines to drown out disruptions. If she sleepwalks during episodes, secure windows/doors and remove tripping hazards.
4. Avoid Triggers
Caffeine, heavy meals, or intense movies before bed can worsen night terrors. Encourage her to avoid stimulants after midday.
5. Stay Calm During Episodes
During a night terror, don’t wake her. Gently guide her back to bed if she’s moving around. Speak in soft, reassuring tones. Intervening abruptly may prolong the episode or cause confusion.
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When to Seek Professional Help
Most night terrors resolve with lifestyle adjustments, but consult a healthcare provider if:
– Episodes occur multiple times a week
– She exhibits daytime fatigue or mood changes
– There’s risk of injury during episodes
– Symptoms began suddenly with no clear cause
A sleep specialist might recommend a polysomnogram (sleep study) to rule out conditions like narcolepsy or seizures. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) can also address anxiety-related triggers.
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A Message to Parents: You’re Not Alone
It’s easy to feel helpless when your child is struggling, but night terrors aren’t a reflection of parenting. Many teens outgrow them with time and support. Focus on fostering open communication—let your daughter know she’s safe and not “weird” for experiencing this. Small adjustments to her routine and emotional well-being can make a big difference.
Remember, resilience isn’t about eliminating challenges but navigating them together. With patience and care, you can help your daughter reclaim restful nights and wake up feeling empowered.
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Night terrors may disrupt sleep, but they don’t have to overshadow her journey into adulthood. By understanding the causes and responding thoughtfully, you’ll provide the stability she needs to thrive—both in dreams and in waking life.
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