Symptom 5: Detailed Dream Recollections
Dreams are fleeting for most of us. They’re ethereal wisps that fade with the morning’s first light. But for those with hyperthymesia, dreams take on a quality of reality. Just as their waking memories are detailed, so are their dream recollections. It’s as if their dreams are just an extension of their reality, documented with the same precision and clarity.
Just as they archive every waking moment, those with HSAM tend to have an expansive library of dream memories. They can recall not just the overarching theme of a dream but intricate details—like the texture of a fabric in the dream or the exact words spoken by a dream character.
Due to this vivid dream recall, the boundary between dreams and reality can sometimes blur. They often find themselves referencing past dreams in their daily lives, drawing parallels, or even using them as guides for decision-making. It’s as if they’re living in two interconnected realities, drawing experiences from both.
Just as their real-life memories come with emotional overlays, so do their dream recollections. A happy dream can brighten their mood for days, while a nightmare might cast a shadow over their emotions, making them feel uneasy long after waking. (5)
