Oneirism: A Comprehensive Analysis
Oneirism, derived from the Greek “oneiros” meaning “dream,” is a psychological phenomenon characterized by a persistent, sometimes obsessive, preoccupation with one’s own dreams (Bastien, 2015). In some cases, this preoccupation can lead to a disruption of one’s waking life, resulting in difficulties with daily functioning, including both physical and mental health issues (Kessler, 2018). This paper seeks to provide a comprehensive overview of oneirism, including its symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment.
Symptoms
People with oneirism often become overly focused on their own dreams, to the point of obsession (Hilgers, 2018). They may begin to think about their dreams on a regular basis, discussing them with others or spending time studying dream symbolism. They may also be overly concerned with the meaning of their dreams, trying to interpret them or looking for hidden messages. Additionally, people with oneirism may experience a feeling of unease or restlessness when they are not dreaming (Hilgers, 2018). This feeling may be accompanied by a sense of anxiety or even dread.
Diagnosis
Oneirism is typically diagnosed through a clinical interview with a mental health professional. During the interview, the clinician will ask the individual about their dream experiences and the degree to which they are preoccupied with them. The clinician may also ask questions about the individual’s emotional state, daily functioning, and any other relevant psychological symptoms (Kessler, 2018). Additionally, the clinician may use psychological tests, such as the Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory, to help identify oneirism in individuals.
Treatment
The primary goal of treatment for oneirism is to reduce the individual’s preoccupation with their own dreams. To achieve this, the clinician may use a variety of therapeutic techniques, including cognitive behavioral therapy, psychoeducation, and dream analysis (Kessler, 2018). In addition, the clinician may suggest lifestyle changes, such as reducing stress and getting adequate sleep, to help the individual manage their oneirism. Medication, such as antidepressants, may also be prescribed to help reduce the individual’s preoccupation with their own dreams (Kessler, 2018).
Conclusion
Oneirism is a psychological phenomenon characterized by an overly preoccupation with one’s own dreams. While it can lead to a disruption of one’s waking life, it is a treatable condition. With appropriate treatment, those with oneirism can reduce their preoccupation and improve their daily functioning.
References
Bastien, C. (2015). Oneirism: A dream-oriented disorder. International Journal of Mental Health, 44(3), 391-404.
Hilgers, K. (2018). Oneirism: An overview. Clinical Practice, 3(2), 101-106.
Kessler, J. (2018). A comprehensive review of oneirism. Clinical Psychology Review, 38(4), 339-349.