Two possible new methods for treating nightmares in people with narcolepsy were discovered in a recent study. Northwestern Medicine researchers explored a combination of therapies in a small clinical trial that included six people living with narcolepsy. The study tested a blend of cognitive behavioral therapy for nightmares as well as a technique called targeted lucidity reactivation.
- Cognitive behavioral therapy for nightmares: Weekly telehealth sessions during the first phase of the study included education about nightmares, healthy sleep habits, and bedtime relaxation techniques. Learning to rescript nightmares and practicing the visualization of these revised dreams before falling asleep was applied.
- Inducing lucid dreams: Researchers introduced this method to half of the group during the fifth week of the study. The objective is to induce lucid dreams so the dreamer is aware they are dreaming and can potentially manipulate the dream’s content.
Their study was published in the Journal of Sleep Research in October of 2024 and showed promising results:
- Reduction in nightmare severity and frequency: Fewer and less severe nightmares after treatment were reported by everyone in the study.
- Improved emotional response: They all felt less anxious and ashamed about their nightmares.
- Lucid dreaming success: A couple of people recalled dreams much like their rescripted versions, which indicates this technique may help alter the content of one’s nightmares.
American Academy of Sleep Medicine (sleepeducation.org)