How Loneliness Fuels Nightmares and Affects Health

People who are lonely are more likely to experience bad dreams. The research highlights a connection between loneliness and sleep disorders, both of which are significant public health concerns linked to higher risks of heart disease, stroke, and premature death.

Oregon State University’s Colin Hesse, a co-author of the study published in the Journal of Psychology, explained that stress is a key factor linking loneliness to both the frequency and intensity of nightmares. Other factors include rumination—worry and anxiety—and hyperarousal, which is described as being overly alert and focused. “Interpersonal relationships are very much a core human need,” said Hesse, adding that loneliness serves as an evolutionary signal alerting individuals that their need for connection is unmet, similar to how hunger signals a lack of calories.

The study, led by Kory Floyd of the University of Arizona, involved surveys of over 1,600 U.S. adults aged 18 to 81. The findings suggest that loneliness is linked to nightmares, although Hesse emphasized that this relationship is correlative rather than causative. Hesse said,

“It’s too early to talk about specific interventions in a concrete sort of way, but our findings are certainly consistent with the possibility that treating loneliness would help lessen someone’s nightmare experiences.”

Hesse also stressed the importance of sleep, noting that “quality restorative sleep is a linchpin for cognitive functioning, mood regulation, metabolism and many other aspects of well-being.” With the U.S. surgeon general reporting that loneliness affects about half of American adults and poses risks on par with smoking, this research adds to the growing understanding of how loneliness can disrupt sleep and overall health.

The research was supported by the Flora Family Fund at Whitworth University.

Learn more about loneliness and its effects on your mental health here.