Sleep Hallucinations

[Sullen Girl]

Ever since I was in my early 20’s, I have dealt with “visions” during sleep that lead me to awaken very afraid and screaming. I usually see these visions as a dark mass along the walls or “shapes” floating along the ceiling. These experiences have been very sporadic but extremely frightening when they do happen. Last night I woke up with a vision of what I could only describe as a large lobster claw up in the ceiling and clawing closer and closer to my face. I don’t know if I’m awake when these things happen or asleep?  Objects in my room also tend to change shapes like the ceiling fan will take the shape of a black cat with a long tail. All this sounds so crazy when I actually try to explain it.  Has anyone had an experience like this and can provide some insight as to what is happening?

[eight bits]

Hypnagogic hallucinations is searchable; see what you think.

It's not that unusual. I don't know where you live, but in many places when it bothers you like that, it's a recognized sleep disorder, and you can get some help with it, maybe covered by your health insurance or similar arrangement.

Welcome aboard.

[preacherman76]

Are these like dreams? Or are they like you woke up and are unable to move while seeing these things? 

[Sullen Girl]

Thank you for your replies. I’m not sure if they are dreams but I know my eyes are open because my husband has said I am staring at the ceiling and it takes a beat for him to get me to snap out of it. I will most definitely search those terms within the forum.