Dreams and Nightmares Directory
Theories abound about the origins of dreams and nightmares (bad dreams), among them that they are a way of working out solutions to problems, consolidating memory, regulating mood, and reenacting trauma. Follow the links below to find WebMD's comprehensive coverage about dreams and nightmares, why they occur, what they mean, and much more.
Medical Reference
Night Terrors: When to See a Doctor
WebMD tells you when you may want to talk to a doctor about your child's night terrors.
Symptoms of Sleepwalking
Learn more from WebMD about the symptoms of sleepwalking.
Parasomnias
WebMD explains disruptive sleep disorders -- called parasomnias -- that range from night terrors to sleep paralysis to bedwetting.
Glossary of Sleep Related Terms
WebMD offers a dictionary of sleep-related terms.
Features
Why Does Daydreaming Get Such a Bad Rap?
Daydreaming is seen as frivolous, a waste of time. But have you considered daydreaming's positive effects?
To Sleep, Perchance to Dream: All about Insomnia
Up to 30 percent of the general population suffers from insomnia - and for half of this group, it's a serious problem.
The Vivid Dreams of Pregnant Women
From dreams about journeys to nightmares about delivery, experts tell WebMD how pregnant women can decipher the secrets of their sleep.
Parasomnias Often Under-Recognized, Misunderstood
Research points way to new treatments for sleepwalking, sleep sex, and other parasomnias.
Video
Quizzes
What Do Your Dreams Say About You?
What do your dreams and nightmares say about you? Take this quiz and find out.
Why You Need Your ZZZs Quiz
Take this quiz and test your knowledge of sleep -- deprivation, insomnia, and nightmares.
What Do You Know About Your Weird, Crazy Dreams?
What happens in your head when you sleep? Take this quiz to see how much you know about your dreams and nightmares.