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Subconscious fears disrupt sleep?

Page last modified on: August 18, 2008

Question from molly284: There are times I wake up sweating with fear (not hot flashes) because my dreams are so vivid that IT came back. I can't really talk to my husband about it because he thinks I should just get over it and move on. Will this fear ever lessen or will it continually gnaw at my subconscious?: Answer —David Spiegel, Ph.D.: I don't know, but it's not completely irrational that you have the fear. One problem is that you have the fear and the second problem is that your husband isn't accepting that, so you wind up not only afraid but alone and afraid. So I would say to him, look, I am having these nightmares and you can help me by giving me a hug and comforting me.

On Wednesday, October 18, 2000, our Ask-the-Expert Online Conference was called Feelings about Breast Cancer. David Spiegel, Ph.D. and moderator Marisa Weiss, M.D. answered your questions about the emotional effects of breast cancer diagnosis and treatment.

The materials presented in these conferences do not necessarily reflect the views of Breastcancer.org. A qualified healthcare professional should be consulted before using any therapeutic product or regimen discussed. All readers should verify all information and data before employing any therapies described here.

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Meet the Experts

David Spiegel, Ph.D. is professor and associate chairman of psychiatry and behavioral sciences at Stanford University School of Medicine.

Marisa Weiss, M.D. is a radiation oncologist specializing in breast cancer and the founder, president, and guiding force behind Breastcancer.org.

Breastcancer.org is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing information and community to those touched by this disease. Learn more about our commitment to providing complete, accurate, and private breast cancer information.

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