5 Signs of Maladaptive Daydreaming You Shouldn't Ignore

While daydreaming is a fun little pastime for most people, some individuals experience frequent and intrusive daydreams that interfere with their daily lives. Do you find yourself daydreaming so much that it begins to negatively impact your life? This excessive type of daydreaming is known as maladaptive daydreaming (MD), a condition that can greatly disturb daily functioning and reduce quality of life.

What is Maladaptive Daydreaming?

Maladaptive daydreaming refers to a form of excessive daydreaming that disrupts an individual's ability to engage in normal daily activities. It is important to note that MD is not officially classified as a mental disorder in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM). While there has been limited research on MD compared to more well-known disorders, the impact on those affected is real.

This article is not intended to provide a certifiable diagnosis of MD, so please refrain from self-diagnosing or diagnosing others. However, understanding the signs can help identify if maladaptive daydreaming is affecting your life. Below are five key signs of maladaptive daydreaming.

5 Signs of Maladaptive Daydreaming

1. You Forget Where You Are

One major sign of maladaptive daydreaming is losing awareness of your surroundings. You may get so caught up in your daydreams that you forget where you are or what you’re doing. This can cause confusion and may negatively affect both your work and personal life. If you find yourself frequently zoning out to the point of disorientation, it may be a sign of MD.

2. You Feel Distressed About Your Daydreaming

Another common symptom is feeling distressed about the amount of time you spend daydreaming. Many individuals who suffer from maladaptive daydreaming feel a sense of guilt or anxiety about how much time they devote to their fantasies. One case study described a woman who spent hours walking in circles while shaking a string in her hand. Despite enjoying these daydreams, she felt conflicted because she was neglecting her daily responsibilities.

3. You Would Rather Daydream Than Talk to People

If you prefer daydreaming over interacting with others, this could be another sign of MD. Do you often find yourself skipping social activities or avoiding hobbies to continue your daydreams? Individuals with MD frequently report that they would rather indulge in their fantasies than engage in real-life conversations or activities. This behavior can lead to social isolation and difficulty maintaining relationships.

4. Your Perception of the World Changes When You Daydream

People with maladaptive daydreaming often report heightened senses during their episodes. They may feel more intense tactile sensations, hear sounds, or visualize vivid images related to their daydreams. These sensations are often much more intense than what people experience during normal daydreams. Some individuals describe feeling present in their dreams as though they are living in a different reality, which can distort their perception of the world.

For example, one person with MD reported feeling less physical pain because they were daydreaming about their idealized self. Another person described feeling a heightened presence and vividness in their daydreams, to the point where reality felt less engaging.

5. You Cannot Control Your Daydreaming

The final sign of maladaptive daydreaming is an inability to control or limit the time spent daydreaming. Some individuals experience challenges in regulating their daydreaming, often spending hours fantasizing and struggling to maintain a healthy balance. If you find yourself unable to set limits or stop daydreaming, this may indicate a more serious issue. MD can interfere with daily life, leading to confusion, procrastination, and difficulty focusing on important tasks.