A recurring dream returns in the same form, or with the same setting and feeling, over weeks or years. Common examples are being chased, falling and returning to school.
One common view is that these dreams come back while a worry or situation remains unresolved. Some people find they fade after a life change; others keep them for decades. Research on the subject is limited, so treat any explanation as a hypothesis.
The useful move is to notice what varies. Does the setting shift, does the ending change, do you act differently? A change in your behaviour inside the dream is often what people report just before it stops.
Mark a dream as recurring in your journal and the patterns page will show how often it appears and what else turns up with it.
If a recurring dream is frightening and disturbs your sleep, see nightmares and when to seek help.
This guide is general information, not medical advice. If dreams or sleep are affecting your health, speak to a doctor.