If you've been having bizarre or ultra-vivid dreams lately, you're not alone. The COVID-19 pandemic has triggered a global wave of intense dreaming, from surreal wizard school adventures to terrifying virus-fueled nightmares. Whether you're dreaming about Gavin Leatherwood or struggling to breathe in your sleep, there's a scientific explanation for why your subconscious is working overtime these days.
The Science Behind Pandemic Dreams
Stress is the biggest culprit behind these vivid dreams. When your brain is overloaded with anxiety, it processes those emotions during REM sleep—the stage where dreams are most intense. Dr. Deirdre Barrett’s research shows that major world events, like 9/11, also triggered a surge in vivid dreams. The pandemic is no different. Your brain is trying to make sense of uncertainty, fear, and disrupted routines, often resulting in dreams that feel more real than usual.
Why Are Some Dreams So Weird?
Dream logic doesn’t follow real-world rules. During REM sleep, the prefrontal cortex—the part of your brain responsible for rational thinking—takes a backseat. That’s why you might dream about your college roommate, your current partner, and a TV crush all hanging out in a wizard school. Your brain mashes up memories, emotions, and random stimuli into a surreal narrative. The more stressed you are, the more your brain scrambles to process everything, leading to even wilder dream scenarios.
Nightmares vs. Just Plain Strange Dreams
Not all pandemic dreams are fun and whimsical. Many people report nightmares about suffocation, illness, or being chased—direct reflections of COVID-related fears. Others experience "lucid dreams," where they’re aware they’re dreaming but can’t control the plot. Sleep disruptions (thanks, erratic schedules!) also play a role. If you’re waking up more often during the night, you’re more likely to remember those fragmented, intense dreams.
How to Get Better Sleep (and Maybe Fewer Wild Dreams)
If your dreams are keeping you up—or freaking you out—there are ways to dial them back. First, limit news consumption before bed. The blue light from screens messes with melatonin production, and doomscrolling fuels anxiety. Try relaxation techniques like deep breathing or meditation to calm your mind before sleep. Keeping a consistent sleep schedule helps regulate REM cycles, so your brain isn’t playing catch-up with your emotions all night.
While pandemic dreams can be unsettling, they’re also a sign that your brain is doing its job—processing stress in its own strange way. If your dreams are causing serious distress, consider talking to a therapist. Otherwise, maybe just enjoy the ride. After all, where else can you date a TV witch and attend wizard school in the same night?
