Night 'horror' is a rare but frightening disorder in which people can scream, make uncontrollable movements and cry - without waking up.
The 'night horror' differs from the nightmare in two ways: The person affected by the night terror usually does not remember what happened to him and does not wake up.
The horrors of the night end when the affected person falls back into regular sleep.
It is otherwise known as "an abnormal dream activation" that tends to be more frightening than regular nightmares, according to Joshua Tal, a psychologist specializing in sleep disorders.
There are other, less common forms of night ‘terror’, including something called sleep paralysis, according to Eleanor McGlinchey, PhD, a psychologist who treats sleep difficulties.
"Another interesting form you can see is the experience where people will report that they are awake but unable to move," McGlinchey said.
What causes the 'horror' of the night?
The biggest cause for the 'terror' of the night is sleep deprivation. Simply not getting enough sleep or having irregular sleep schedules can cause, or make it more likely for you to experience the ‘horror’ of the night.
There is also some connection between other mental illnesses or sleep disorders. People who have anxiety, depression may experience these 'night horrors' or sleep horrors.
What can be done to avoid or stop it?
In the first line of treatment is to have a regular sleep time. Also for people who suffer, so-called predictive awakenings are recommended, where a relative gently wakes the person shortly before they usually have a night terror.
Psychological treatment is also much needed.
According to experts, in most cases the 'horrors' of the night fade over time, or after you change your lifestyle.
