However, this isnt a sense of familiarity where I feel Im repeating myself or retracing my steps.
Instead, I am convinced I havedreamedwhat I am experiencing at that very moment.
This wasnt a phenomenon that only cropped up in adulthood.
Verywell Mind / Getty Images
Ive come to learn this experience has a name: deja reve.
However, it is quite different.
[Deja reve] seems to occur in younger people, she explains.
She continued by sharing that some folks with epilepsy also report deja reve as a common occurrence.
Finally, good old-fashionedfatiguecan trigger deja reve, too.
There is nuance to this experience and anyone, those with epilepsy or not, can experience this phenomenon.
Deja Reve vs.
Similar to deja reve, deja vu is also associated with epilepsy.
But, just like deja reve, anyone can have this experience.
Coping With Deja Reve
Generally speaking, deja reve isnt anything to fear.
Though it can feel mystical and otherworldly, it is a rather common experience.
If youre doubting that, ask those in your life if theyve experienced it they likely have.
Considering there is a link to epilepsy, some readers may feel a bit spooked.
I asked Dr. Stone for her insight on when she thinks someone should seekprofessional helpfor deja reve.
Take notes of your dreams in yourdream journaland notice what dreams your mind calls back to with deja reve.
If youre working with atherapist, this can be powerful material to process together.
Alternatively, you may look intodream symbolismto see what wisdom these occurrences may hold.
2022;55(2):426-437. doi:10.1111/ejn.15570
