MY SPECIAL FRIEND

by Riley Squared (Riley Bettes and Riley Getchell)
What's it like to see your nightmares come to life? For some of those who suffer from sleep paralysis, this is reality.
Sleep paralysis is a complex condition that occurs between REM cycles, causing the person to be in an immobile half-awake, half-asleep state. While unable to move, some who suffer from the condition can experience hallucinations or 'sleep paralysis demons.'
Obviously there's a scientific explanation; however, humans have created a more spiritual one, claiming these episodes are caused by demons sitting on a person's chest, immobilizing them and fueling their fears.
A second year student here at PCC explained her encounters with sleep paralysis. She claims to be immobilized and see three recurring visions. Some of these visions include an old witch-like lady, demonic twins, and her uncle. She went on to elaborate that they sometimes assume "ghostly forms" and feel extremely real. This student also explained how frightening it is in the moment, but her visions, her uncle in particular, do not scare her in real life.
We consulted with the PCC Psychology Master Teacher, Ms. Olsen, to learn more. Ms. Olsen explained that when you sleep, or are in REM sleep, the part of your brain that controls fear responses, the amygdala, is not suppressed by the frontal lobe. This allows fear responses to roam free while you sleep, and cause things in your environment to manifest as your fears or demons. Paralysis is often caused by anxiety, stress, PTSD, or sleep disruptions.
If you ever experience sleep paralysis, Ms. Olsen advises to just wiggle your finger or toes. Always remember that your special friends can't hurt you.