What should I do if I feel afraid at night?

Fear at night is extremely common and rarely indicates anything. Here is what to do with it.

In the moment

• Recite Ayat al-Kursi
• Recite Al-Ikhlas, Al-Falaq and An-Nas, blowing into your hands and wiping over yourself
• Say the dua of refuge in the perfect words of Allah from the evil of what He created
• Turn on a light, get up, drink water, pray if you are able
• Recite aloud rather than silently. Hearing your own voice steadies you

Longer term

• Stop reading about this subject at night. This is the single most effective change most people can make. Symptom lists and session footage consumed at midnight manufacture the fear they then seem to explain
• Keep the sleep routine consistent
• Address sleep deprivation, which amplifies fear enormously
• Play Surah Al-Baqarah in the home

If the fear is persistent and affecting your life, speak to a doctor. Anxiety disorders respond well to treatment, and nocturnal anxiety is a recognised and treatable pattern.

Fear is not evidence. Frightened people are simply frightened, and that is treatable from either direction.