Nightmares
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Nightmares are complex and can have significant impacts on daily life. Clinically, nightmares are defined as distressing dreams causing waking life dysfunction or distress, and when they occur frequently (at least once a week), they may be categorized as a nightmare disorder 1. Theories on their purpose vary, suggesting they could either represent maladaptive, unresolved processing or could have adaptive value by revisiting pain points to achieve resolution 1.
, an expert in sleep and dream research, discusses Image Rehearsal Therapy (IRT) as an effective treatment for recurring nightmares. This involves rewriting the end of nightmares with a more neutral outcome, which gradually alters the distressing memory through memory reconsolidation 2 3.
Additionally, nightmares are generally associated with changes in REM sleep, but some may occur during slow wave sleep due to the absence of norepinephrine, which often prevents intense fearful memories in REM 4. highlights that PTSD-related nightmares might be alleviated by reducing REM sleep through THC usage, as some studies suggest this may improve sleep quality and reduce nightmare frequency in treatment-resistant populations 5 6.
Overall, while nightmares can be distressing, therapies like IRT and research advancements are offering promising solutions for those affected.
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