Emotional experiences in dreams are usually related to subconscious conflicts, real-world pressures, or psychological states. Although research exploring the elements of dreams can be used in psychology or creation, it should be noted that **Excessive stimulation of the subconscious mind may have a negative impact on mental health**. The following are some elements that are considered to cause anxiety or panic in psychology and dreamland research. They are for reference only.： --- ### **1. Sense of loss of control and unknown threats** -**Element**: Falling, trapped (small space/maze), unable to call for help, out of control (unable to run/limb dissolved). -**Mechanism**: This kind of element directly triggers the primitive fear of loss of control in humans, which is related to the survival instincts of the brainstem (such as the fall reflex). The lack of constraints of “realistic logic” in dreams amplifies the sense of helplessness. --- ### **2. Visualization of cognitive distortions** -**Elements**: Distorted time (infinite loop/time stagnation), paradox space (endless stairs/reverse physical rules), vague source of threat (invisible chaser). -**Mechanism**: The activity of the prefrontal lobes of the brain decreases during sleep, resulting in a weakening of logical judgment. Scenes that violate common sense can cause cognitive dissonance and exacerbate anxiety. --- ### **3. Symbolic deep fear** -**Element**： -**Natural forces**: tsunami, earthquake, abyss. -**Social relations**: Relatives and friends are suddenly indifferent/attacked, isolated by the group. -**Supernatural existence**: dark shadows, staring eyes, indescribable entities. -**Mechanism**: The “shadow archetype” in Jungian psychology or fear symbols in the collective subconscious (such as the evolutionary instinct for darkness) may be activated. --- ### **4. Sensory deprivation and abnormal perception** -**Elements**: Deafness/blindness, the threat of slow movement, the sense of oppression in a silent environment, alienation of body parts (such as tooth loss). -**Mechanism**: Sensory deprivation forces the brain to rely on imagination to complete information, and this completion in dreams is often biased towards negative expectations. --- ### **5. Metaphorical trauma reappears** -**Elements**: Repeat specific scenes (such as failed exams, forgetting words in public speeches), changes in childhood environment (home becomes a ruin). -**Mechanism**: Such elements may be associated with unresolved trauma in reality and release anxiety through “re-enactment” of dreams, but may cause panic. --- ###**Precautions** 1. **Individual differences**: The effects of the same element on different people vary greatly (for example, people who are afraid of snakes Vs. Snake breeder). 2. **Lucid dreaming risk**: Deliberate control of dreams may cause sleep paralysis or confusion of reality. 3. **Psychological protection mechanism**: Long-term nightmares may be a signal of psychological stress, and professional help is required. If your research is related to creation, it is recommended to design symbolic elements based on the background of the character; if it involves your own dream troubles, it is recommended to relieve them through mindfulness or cognitive behavioral therapy.