Why do I have bad dreams and wake up at 3am?
Approved answer
Understanding Bad Dreams and Midnight Awakenings
Experiencing bad dreams and waking up at 3 a.m. can often be attributed to stress, anxiety, or depression. A particularly challenging day may trigger overwhelming thoughts during the night, possibly manifesting as a nightmare that abruptly awakens you. In more severe cases, individuals might also encounter sleep paralysis. Additionally, anxiety can contribute to disrupted sleep, making it harder to stay asleep throughout the night.