Efficacy of a web application as a self-help intervention for nightmares: a randomized controlled trial
Somnologie - Schlafforschung und Schlafmedizin April 30, 2026 Julia Voss, Madlen Peters, Gordon Pipa et al.
A web-based self-help application called DreamMend, which uses an AI-powered chatbot to deliver imagery rehearsal therapy, reduced nightmare frequency and distress more than a waitlist control over 8 weeks. Nightmare frequency decreased in the intervention group while remaining constant in the control group, and distress decreased significantly more in the intervention group. The findings suggest that digital, AI-supported imagery rehearsal therapy is a feasible and effective self-help intervention for nightmares, though larger and more diverse trials are needed.