Exploring the Role of “Drug Dreams” in Individuals with Substance Use Disorders and Addictions: a Narrative Review

Aims: “Drug dreams” are dreams that many individuals with substance use disorders and addictions experience. Drug dreams portray the usage of drugs or drug-related issues. The goal of this thesis was to conduct a narrative review of the literature on drug dreams, with a focus on substance-related disorders, while searching across different theoretical frameworks and methods for collecting, measuring and interpreting drug dreams. Methods: The databases CINAHL, PsycINFO, PubMed, and Scopus were searched by abstract each database’s date of inception to February 2024. In addition, reference lists and foreword citation searches were performed. Results: Drug dreams are prevalent among individuals undergoing treatment for various addictions, occurring in approximately 80% of patients, with the highest frequencies in early abstinence. These dreams often emerge shortly after cessation of substance use and tend to decrease over time but can persist even after long periods of sobriety. The content typically involves drug use or related activities, leading to intense emotional reactions such as guilt, relief, or craving upon awakening. Clinically, drug dreams can serve as both a risk factor for relapse and a potential aid in recovery by reflecting and processing cravings and underlying psychological conflicts. Conclusion: Drug dreams are a prevalent and clinically significant phenomenon in individuals with substance use disorders (SUDs). Recognising these dreams in therapeutic settings can offer valuable insights into an individual's motivation and recovery progress, serving as both a predictor of relapse risk and a therapeutic tool for a deeper understanding of patients' psychological states and coping mechanisms.