This article has been viewed 599,970 times. Daydreaming that causes significant distress or impairment in personal social or occupational situations. This article received 24 testimonials and 92% of readers who voted found it helpful, earning it our reader-approved status.

WikiHow marks an article as reader-approved once it receives enough positive feedback. Approximately 4 to 6 percent of people spend large chunks of their waking time in fantasy.

There are 12 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. A new study looks at the personalities of people who are most likely to suffer from maladaptive daydreaming. She is also the author of the book Trauma and Madness in Mental Health Services. She has been featured in National Geographic, BBC News, CNN, TalkSpace, and Parents magazine. Hunter holds a BA in Psychology from the University of South Florida, an MA in Psychology from New York University, and a doctorate in Psychology (Psy.D) from Long Island University.

She specializes in using a trauma-informed, humanistic approach for treating and advocating for people diagnosed with mental disorders. She is the director and founder of MindClear Integrative Psychotherapy. Noel Hunter is a Clinical Psychologist based in New York City. This article was co-authored by Noel Hunter, Psy.D.

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