The nightmare severity index (NSI): A short new multidimensional tool for assessing nightmares.
Journal of Sleep Research May 1, 2024 Pierre A Geoffroy, Émilie Stern, Julia Maruani et al.
A new multidimensional scale, the Nightmare Severity Index (NSI), was tested in 102 patients, mostly women (64%) and outpatients (76%) with mood disorders (depression 31%, bipolar disorder 41%) and frequent PTSD comorbidity (44%). The NSI assesses nightmare frequency, emotional impact, diurnal impact, and nocturnal impact. The questionnaire showed good internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha >0.7) and was well suited for factor analysis. Higher NSI scores corresponded to individuals meeting DSM-5/ICSD-3 criteria for nightmare disorder. The NSI appears to be a promising tool for clinical assessment of nightmare severity.