Dream analysis: Never finishing college (but I did... in fact twice)!

[joclemens]

Tony:  Please help with a recurring dream I have had my entire adult life.   I would also like advice on how to get rid of this recurring dream as I awaken full of stress and anxiety:  my heart is beating fast, I'm rigid and my head is spinning and I have a sense of panic.
My recurring dream is that I never finished college when in reality I have finished.  In fact I have an undergraduate and also a graduate degree.  The dream is so vivid and powerful that I'm tempted to get out of bed and look at my diplomas. 
Thank you very much.  This is such a kind and generous forum you provide.
Jo

[Tony Crisp]

Jo - This is certainly due to what is called conditioned reflexes or responses. See http://dreamhawk.com/dream-encyclopedia/conditioned-reflexes-or-responses/

When we have a powerful emotional response to an event or situation, it probably happens again and becomes an unconscious habit. To change it you may need to become aware of its original cause - which in your case seems to be stress about passing your exams or being able to finish the course. There must have been a time of great uncertainty to have caused it. So see if you can find their cause by using http://dreamhawk.com/dream-encyclopedia/acting-on-your-dream/#BeingPerson

Tony