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Multi-component treatment for posttraumatic nightmares in Vietnam veterans: two case studies
Jill Wanner1, Mary E Long, Ellen J Teng
1Michael E. DeBakey Veterans Affairs Medical Center and Menninger Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA.
Journal of Psychiatric Practice
|July 21, 2010
Summary
A modified treatment for posttraumatic nightmares (PTNMs) showed promise in Vietnam Veterans, reducing PTSD and sleep disturbances. This approach offers hope for veterans struggling with chronic trauma-related dreams.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry
- Sleep Medicine
- Trauma Studies
Background:
- Posttraumatic nightmares (PTNMs) are distressing dreams common in posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
- Existing PTNM treatments are effective in civilians but understudied in Veterans, a population with high PTNM prevalence (50%-88%).
- Chronic PTNMs significantly worsen PTSD symptoms, distress, and sleep quality, often resisting standard treatments.
Observation:
- This study investigated a modified treatment for chronic PTNMs in two Vietnam Veterans.
- The treatment is a variant of a successful civilian PTNM therapy, adapted for Veteran needs.
- Case reports detail the treatment process and outcomes.
Findings:
- Both Veterans experienced moderate reductions in sleep disturbances during treatment.
- Clinically significant decreases in PTSD and depressive symptoms were observed across assessments.
- Preliminary data suggest treatment efficacy in this Veteran cohort.
Implications:
- This modified PTNM treatment shows potential for improving outcomes in Veterans with PTSD.
- Findings encourage further research into specialized trauma-focused therapies for military populations.
- The study highlights the need for accessible and effective treatments for Veteran mental health challenges.
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