Sleep and PTSD don’t always mix. Many people suffering from PTSD report nightmares that not only frighten, but also impact functioning. However, a new supplemental treatment is being tested that may eventually assist in reducing PTSD symptoms.
Sleep naturally has many benefits including increasing physical healing, processing memories, and improving mood. PTSD is known to greatly disrupt the natural sleep process and bring about nightmares.
A few existing treatment options appear to be effective for sleep in PTSD. But more recent breakthroughs in the neurology field suggest the ability to increase and direct the memory consolidation process.
This treatment augmentation is done using a process called targeted memory reactivation (TMR). TMR is done by introducing sensory cues such as smells and sounds relating to treatment during certain periods of sleep. These sounds will occur while the participant is sleeping. This can provide the opportunity for clients receiving treatment for PTSD to augment results while getting some much needed zzz’s.
Now, knowing the contentious relationship between sleep and PTSD, you may be wondering if this will increase the presence of nightmares. Interestingly, participant reports do not indicate that this new treatment induces nightmares. This is especially important given the mental and emotional strain of nightmares on clients. And, while there are treatment options, it is always best to assess whether the benefit of an intervention is worth the potential for harm.
PTSD can be debilitating and treatment can be emotionally taxing. For many, the option of augmenting treatment while asleep would be appealing. While further studies are necessary, initial results are promising. The potential for improving quality of sleep and PTSD symptoms is an opportunity to keep our eyes on as this treatment option is explored!
