Nightmare Disorder

Sleep Med Clin. 2024 Mar;19(1):111-119. doi: 10.1016/j.jsmc.2023.10.011. Epub 2023 Nov 17.

Abstract

This article presents a comprehensive review of nightmare disorder, covering diagnosis, treatment approaches, guidelines, and considerations. It begins with an introduction, defining the disorder and addressing its prevalence and psychosocial implications. The article explores assessment tools for diagnosis and then delves into psychological and pharmacologic treatment modalities, examining their efficacy and side effects. Considerations for optimizing therapeutic outcomes are highlighted, including medication versus psychotherapy, co-morbidities, cultural implications, and the use of technology and service animals. The review concludes by offering key recommendations for effective treatment and clinical care for individuals with nightmare disorder.

Keywords: Dream; Nightmare disorder; Nightmares; Parasomnia; REM sleep; Sleep disorders; Sleep disturbances.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Comorbidity
  • Dreams* / psychology
  • Humans
  • Polysomnography
  • Psychotherapy*