Sleep, Nightmares and Schizophrenia

Nightmares are common and distressing in people with schizophrenia, and they can be dangerous. Sleep problems are known to worsen psychiatric symptoms and increase suicide risk, yet sleep quality is rarely assessed in psychiatric evaluations beyond insomnia. Treating nightmares can improve quality of life and reduce suicide risk for those with schizophrenia.

Study at a glance

Abstract

Sleep problems are recognized as widespread in patients with psychosis. Other facts are known as well – that not only can psychiatric illness result in sleep problems, but that these same problems can exacerbate psychopathology and that they constitute risk factors for suicide. Sleep difficulties are known to respond well to appropriate treatment and yet, with the exception of insomnia, sleep quality is not routinely inquired about during psychiatric assessments. This narrative review focuses on nightmares in the context of schizophrenia and the results suggest that they are both common and distressing. They are also potentially dangerous. The alleviation of nightmares can improve the quality of life for persons suffering from schizophrenia and can lower the risk of suicide.