Dreams and nightmares: Clinical aspects, management, and links to psychiatric disorders
L Encéphale April 9, 2026 Julia Maruani, E. Clerici, M. Ambar Akkaoui et al. 3 citations
Nightmares affect an estimated 34-70% of individuals with psychiatric disorders and are linked to more severe psychopathology, including heightened depressive symptoms and suicidal ideation. Nightmares are independently associated with increased suicide risk, regardless of the underlying diagnosis, underscoring the need to include them in suicide risk assessments. A four-step diagnostic care algorithm is proposed: differentiating Nightmare Disorder from isolated nightmares; assessing the four core dimensions of the disorder; considering differential diagnoses; and identifying predisposing, precipitating, comorbid, and perpetuating factors. Imagery Rehearsal Therapy (IRT) currently stands as the first-line treatment for Nightmare Disorder, though more targeted and personalized therapeutic strategies are needed.