I'm getting to where I relate. During the worst of my nightmare years, I had vivid dream recall from the years that sharing dreams was a morning ritual with two of my sisters and I. A dream journal increased my dream recall immensely. Like so many other things, dream recall is more habit than talent.

That was many years ago and I have lost the habits and don't recall my dreams so well any more. Yes, waking up anxious is a sign of nightmares.

Hope the benadryl worked and this morning finds you refreshed and more relaxed.

Thanks. I think it’s helping some. Still woke up anxious but not as bad as usual. I wish I could remember my dreams. Maybe. Maybe that would be worse

I miss my vivid dream recall. Dreams are even more entertaining than cable TV, though the horror shows are a bit too horrifying for my taste. Even there, the nightmares often offer clues as to where my psychotherapy needs to go.

A dream journal is a great way to develop dream recall habits. You can start with recording the feelings and senses you wake up with.

Lately I've been wondering if I need to re-start my dream journal to re-build my own dream recall habits. I really do miss remembering my dreams. Even the nightmares. Nightmares are not a big problem for me any more, but when they do come, I hate not knowing what has made me anxious in the morning.