The term “maladaptive daydreaming” was created in 2002, but is not yet recognized as an official condition in The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. [3] X Research source
For example, what starts as simple daydreaming in a child may turn into detailed fantasies after any kind of abuse or traumatic experience begins.
Such a strong desire to daydream that it’s compared to an addiction Incredibly detailed and complex daydreams Acting out the daydreams, but understanding the difference between reality and the daydreams (unlike schizophrenics or psychotics) Difficulty in fulfilling simply daily tasks (like eating, showering, sleeping) because of the daydreams
For instance, if you are trying to avoid your trigger spot in the house, your plan might look like this: Do work in kitchen instead of bedroom. Get out of the house - go for a walk. Go to a coffee shop to work instead of at home. [7] X Research source
Studies have shown that poor sleep quality or not enough leads to more frequent daydreaming. [9] X Trustworthy Source PubMed Central Journal archive from the U. S. National Institutes of Health Go to source It’s also been linked to impaired memory, slower reaction time, impaired attention, and intrusive daydreaming.
One theory about daydreaming says that daydreaming is a self-soothing technique, used to calm or pacify the daydreamer. [10] X Research source In this case, try doing a self-soothing or self-care activity, like cooking dinner, doing yoga, or going with a friend for a pedicure.
At first, you may not be able to catch yourself at all and the timer will go off in the middle of a daydream. This is fine. Let the timer interrupt your daydreaming until you learn to monitor the behavior yourself. [12] X Research source Setting a timer is a good form of self-monitoring which helps you take an active part in reducing daydreaming. Since it’s a behavioral modification technique, the results can be long lasting. [13] X Research source
Although research is needed to know why journaling can help maladaptive daydreamers, journaling has been shown to slow down thought processes, allow space for self discovery, and relieve tension. [15] X Research source
For example, maybe your mind frequently wanders to imagine if you lived in a foreign country and held a different job. What simply seems like a daydream could become a reality if you take steps to move somewhere else and find a new job.
For example, if you find yourself slipping into daydreaming whenever you become stressed or irritated, you may be able to work with a therapist to develop coping strategies for stress or anger.
Be sure to follow any medical developments that come from studying maladaptive daydreaming. As more studies are done, new treatments and coping mechanisms may become available.
