Assessing Sleep Disturbance in PTSD: Nightmares, Awakenings, and Sleep Terrors
David Osser
April 28, 2026 DOI: 10.64239/pi-vl10903 (opens in new tab)
Study at a glance
AI-extracted from the abstract| Characteristics | Commentary |
|---|---|
| Topics | Dreaming PTSD |
| Key points | Advises that disturbed awakenings in PTSD be counted as nightmares at baseline because they are a key symptom and treatment target; that nicotine withdrawal be investigated in pack-a-day smokers who awaken after several hours, with return to sleep after smoking as an indicator; and that bed partners not shake patients awake during sleep terrors with thrashing and screaming because of assault risk. |
Abstract
When assessing sleep disturbances in PTSD, count disturbed awakenings as nightmares at baseline. This is a key symptom of PTSD-related sleep problems and a target for treatment. Investigate nicotine withdrawal in pack-a-day smokers who awaken after several hours. An important indicator is the patient’s ability to return to sleep after smoking a cigarette. For sleep terrors with thrashing and screaming, advise bed partners not to shake the patient awake due to risk of assault.