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Gielkens EMJ, Rossi G, van Alphen SPJ, Sobczak S. A First Exploration: Can Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Improve Cognition in Older Adults With Posttraumatic Stress Disorder? J Geriatr Psychiatry Neurol 2024; 37:206-221. [PMID: 37869986 DOI: 10.1177/08919887231207639] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES In older adults, PTSD is associated with decreased verbal learning and executive dysfunction. Therefore, feasibility of EMDR-treatment to improve cognitive performance in older adults with PTSD was examined. Additionally, we investigated pre-treatment correlation with often co-occurring risk factors for cognitive decline (sleep problems, depressive disorder, physical inactivity, childhood traumatic events). DESIGN Multicenter design with pre-post measurements. SETTING Psychiatric Dutch hospitals Mondriaan Mental Health Center and Altrecht. PARTICIPANTS 22 treatment-seeking PTSD-outpatients (60-84 years). INTERVENTION Weekly one-hour EMDR session during 3, 6, or 9 months. MEASUREMENTS PTSD was assessed with Clinician-Administered PTSD-scale for DSM-5 (CAPS-5). Verbal learning memory was measured with Auditory Verbal Learning Test (RAVLT), interference with Stroop Colour-Word Test (SCWT) and working memory with Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale-Digit Span (WAIS-IV-DS). RESULTS A Linear mixed-model showed significant improvement on RAVLT immediate-recall (F (1, 21) = 15.928, P = .001, 95% CI -6.98-2.20), delayed-recall (F (1, 21) = 7.095, P = .015, 95% CI -2.43-.30), recognition (F (21) = 8.885, P = .007, 95% CI -1.70- -.30), and SCWT (F (1 ,21) = 5.504, P = .029, 95% CI 4.38-72.78) but not on WAIS-IV-DS (F (20) = -1.237, P = .230, 95% CI -3.07-.78). There was no significant influence of therapy duration and CAPS-5 pre-treatment scores. There were small-medium nonsignificant correlations between CAPS-5 and cognitive performance pre-post differences, and between most cognitive measures and sleep problems, depressive disorder, and physical inactivity. CONCLUSIONS Cognitive functioning on memory and attention possible increased in older adults with PTSD after EMDR treatment. Further research is needed with a larger sample and a control condition to corroborate these findings and to identify the possible mediating role of modifiable risk factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ellen M J Gielkens
- Department Clinical Center of Excellence for Older Adults with Personality Disorders, Mondriaan Mental Health Center, Heerlen-Maastricht, the Netherlands
- Psychology Department, Personality and Psychopathology Research Group (PEPS), Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Gina Rossi
- Psychology Department, Personality and Psychopathology Research Group (PEPS), Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Sebastiaan P J van Alphen
- Department Clinical Center of Excellence for Older Adults with Personality Disorders, Mondriaan Mental Health Center, Heerlen-Maastricht, the Netherlands
- Psychology Department, Personality and Psychopathology Research Group (PEPS), Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Brussels, Belgium
- Department of Medical and Clinical Psychology, Tilburg University, Tilburg, the Netherlands
| | - Sjacko Sobczak
- Department Clinical Center of Excellence for Older Adults with Personality Disorders, Mondriaan Mental Health Center, Heerlen-Maastricht, the Netherlands
- Department of Neuropsychology and Psychopharmacology, Faculty of Psychology and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands
- Research Center Innovations in Care, Rotterdam University of Applied Sciences (RUAS), Rotterdam, The Netherlands
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Remadi M, Dinis S, Bernard L, Defontaine D, Boussaud M, Chennaoui M, Saguin E. Evaluation of sleep and therapeutic education needs of military with PTSD. L'ENCEPHALE 2024; 50:48-53. [PMID: 36907668 DOI: 10.1016/j.encep.2023.01.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2022] [Revised: 12/11/2022] [Accepted: 01/10/2023] [Indexed: 03/12/2023]
Abstract
Sleep disorders in post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) are both diagnostic (nocturnal reliving) and prognostic. Poor sleep worsens the daytime symptomatology of PTSD and makes it resistant to treatment. However, no specific treatment is codified in France to treat these sleep disorders although sleep therapies (cognitive behavioural therapy for insomnia, psychoeducation and relaxation) have proven for years to be effective in treating insomnia. Therapeutic sessions can be part of a therapeutic patient education program, which is a model for the management of chronic pathologies. It allows for an improvement in a patient's quality of life and enhanced medication compliance. We therefore carried out an inventory of sleep disorders of patients with PTSD. First, we collected data by means of sleep diaries concerning the population's sleep disorders at home. Then we assessed the population's expectations and needs regarding its management of sleep, thanks to a semi-qualitative interview. The data from sleep diaries, which was consistent with the literature, showed that our patients suffered from severe sleep disorders that strongly impact their daily lives, with 87% of patients having an increased sleep onset latency, and 88% having nightmares. We observed a strong demand from patients for specific support for these symptoms, 91% expressing an interest in a TPE program targeting sleep disorders. Thanks to the data collected, the emerging themes for a future therapeutic patient education program targeting sleep disorders of soldiers with PTSD are: sleep hygiene; management of nocturnal awakenings, including nightmares; and psychotropic drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Remadi
- Service de psychiatrie, HIA Bégin, 94160 Saint-Mandé, France.
| | - S Dinis
- Service de psychiatrie, HIA Bégin, 94160 Saint-Mandé, France
| | - L Bernard
- Service de psychiatrie, HIA Bégin, 94160 Saint-Mandé, France
| | - D Defontaine
- Service de psychiatrie, HIA Percy, 92140 Clamart, France
| | - M Boussaud
- Service de psychiatrie, HIA Percy, 92140 Clamart, France
| | - M Chennaoui
- VIFASOM (vigilance fatigue sommeil et santé publique) EA 7330, université de Paris, 75005 Paris, France; Institut de recherche biomédicale des Armées, 91220 Brétigny-sur-Orge, France
| | - E Saguin
- Service de psychiatrie, HIA Bégin, 94160 Saint-Mandé, France; VIFASOM (vigilance fatigue sommeil et santé publique) EA 7330, université de Paris, 75005 Paris, France
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3
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Bottari SA, Trifilio ER, Janicke DM, Porges EC, Cohen RA, Jaffee MS, Williamson JB. Effects of sleep disturbance on trauma-focused psychotherapy outcomes in posttraumatic stress disorder: A systematic review. Ann N Y Acad Sci 2023; 1526:30-49. [PMID: 37393069 DOI: 10.1111/nyas.15029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/03/2023]
Abstract
This study aimed to synthesize existing research on the effects of sleep disturbances on trauma-focused psychotherapy outcomes in adults with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). A systematic review using PubMed, PsycINFO, Embase, Web of Science, and PTSDpubs was performed up to April 2021. Two independent reviewers screened articles for inclusion, performed data extraction, and assessed risk of bias and certainty of the evidence. Narrative synthesis was conducted based on the type of sleep disorder symptom assessed. Sixteen primary studies were included in this review, the majority of which had a high overall risk of bias. Results suggested that sleep disorder symptoms were associated with higher overall PTSD severity across treatment; however, they did not interfere with treatment effectiveness, with the exception of sleep-disordered breathing. Improvements in insomnia, sleep duration, and sleep quality during treatment were associated with greater treatment gains. Certainty of the evidence ranged from low to very low. These results suggest that it may not be necessary to address sleep disorder symptoms prior to initiating trauma-focused psychotherapy. Instead, concurrent treatment of sleep- and trauma-related symptoms may be most beneficial. Continued research is needed to clarify the mechanistic relationship between sleep and treatment outcomes and to guide clinical decision-making.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah A Bottari
- Department of Clinical and Health Psychology, College of Public Health and Health Professions, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
- Center for OCD, Anxiety, and Related Disorders, Department of Psychiatry, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
- Brain Rehabilitation Research Center, Malcom Randall VA Medical Center, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - Erin R Trifilio
- Department of Clinical and Health Psychology, College of Public Health and Health Professions, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
- Department of Neurology, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - David M Janicke
- Department of Clinical and Health Psychology, College of Public Health and Health Professions, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - Eric C Porges
- Department of Clinical and Health Psychology, College of Public Health and Health Professions, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
- Center for Cognitive Aging and Memory, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
- Brain Rehabilitation Research Center, Malcom Randall VA Medical Center, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - Ronald A Cohen
- Department of Clinical and Health Psychology, College of Public Health and Health Professions, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
- Center for Cognitive Aging and Memory, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
- Brain Rehabilitation Research Center, Malcom Randall VA Medical Center, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - Michael S Jaffee
- Department of Neurology, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - John B Williamson
- Department of Clinical and Health Psychology, College of Public Health and Health Professions, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
- Center for OCD, Anxiety, and Related Disorders, Department of Psychiatry, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
- Center for Cognitive Aging and Memory, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
- Brain Rehabilitation Research Center, Malcom Randall VA Medical Center, Gainesville, Florida, USA
- Department of Neuroscience, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
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Slavish DC, Ruggero CJ, Briggs M, Messman BA, Contractor AA, Miao J, Oltmanns JR, Waszczuk MA, Luft BJ, Kotov R. Longitudinal associations between PTSD and sleep disturbances among World Trade Center responders. Sleep Med 2023; 101:269-277. [PMID: 36462305 DOI: 10.1016/j.sleep.2022.11.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2022] [Revised: 10/28/2022] [Accepted: 11/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE/BACKGROUND Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is characterized by substantial disruptions in sleep quality, continuity, and depth. Sleep problems also may exacerbate PTSD symptom severity. Understanding how PTSD and sleep may reinforce one another is critical for informing effective treatments. PATIENTS/METHODS In a sample of 452 World Trade Center 9/11 responders (mean age = 55.22, 89.4% male, 66.1% current or former police), we examined concurrent and cross-lagged associations between PTSD symptom severity, insomnia symptoms, nightmares, and sleep quality at 3 time points ∼1 year apart. Data were analyzed using random intercept cross-lagged panel models. RESULTS PTSD symptom severity and sleep variables were relatively stable across time (intraclass correlation coefficients: 0.63 to 0.84). Individuals with more insomnia symptoms, more nightmares, and poorer sleep quality had greater PTSD symptom severity, on average. Within-person results revealed that greater insomnia symptoms and nightmares at Time 1 were concurrently associated with greater PTSD symptoms at Time 1. Insomnia symptoms were also concurrently associated with PTSD symptoms at Times 2 and 3, respectively. Cross-lagged and autoregressive results revealed that PTSD symptoms and nightmares predicted nightmares at the next timepoint. CONCLUSIONS Overall, results suggest PTSD and sleep problems may be linked at the same point in time but may not always influence each other longitudinally. Further, individuals who experience more sleep disturbances on average may suffer from more debilitating PTSD. Evidence-based treatments for PTSD may consider incorporating treatment of underlying sleep disturbances and nightmares.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danica C Slavish
- Department of Psychology, University of North Texas, Denton, TX, 76203, USA.
| | - Camilo J Ruggero
- Department of Psychology, University of North Texas, Denton, TX, 76203, USA.
| | - Madasen Briggs
- Department of Psychology, University of North Texas, Denton, TX, 76203, USA.
| | - Brett A Messman
- Department of Psychology, University of North Texas, Denton, TX, 76203, USA.
| | - Ateka A Contractor
- Department of Psychology, University of North Texas, Denton, TX, 76203, USA.
| | - Jiaju Miao
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Health, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, 11794, USA.
| | - Joshua R Oltmanns
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Health, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, 11794, USA.
| | - Monika A Waszczuk
- Department of Psychology, Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science, North Chicago, IL, 60064, USA.
| | - Benjamin J Luft
- Department of Medicine, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, 11794, USA.
| | - Roman Kotov
- Department of Psychiatry, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, 11794, USA.
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5
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Insomnia and Post-traumatic Stress Disorder: A Meta-analysis on Interrelated Association (n=57,618) and Prevalence (n=573,665). Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2022; 141:104850. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2022.104850] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2022] [Revised: 08/27/2022] [Accepted: 08/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
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Swift KM, Thomas CL, Balkin TJ, Lowery-Gionta EG, Matson LM. Acute sleep interventions as an avenue for treatment of trauma-associated disorders. J Clin Sleep Med 2022; 18:2291-2312. [PMID: 35678060 PMCID: PMC9435330 DOI: 10.5664/jcsm.10074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2021] [Revised: 04/13/2022] [Accepted: 04/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
Scientific evidence that acute, posttrauma sleep disturbances (eg, nightmares and insomnia) can contribute significantly to the pathogenesis of trauma-induced disorders is compelling. Sleep disturbances precipitating from trauma are uniquely predictive of daytime posttrauma symptom occurrence and severity, as well as subsequent onset of mental health disorders, including post-traumatic stress disorder. Conversely, adequate sleep during the acute posttrauma period is associated with reduced likelihood of adverse mental health outcomes. These findings, which are broadly consistent with what is known about the role of sleep in the regulation of emotion, suggest that the acute posttrauma period constitutes a "window of opportunity" during which treatment of sleep disturbances may be especially effective for preventing or mitigating progression of aberrant psychophysiological processes. At this point, the weight of the scientific evidence supporting this possibility warrants initiation of clinical trials to confirm the benefits of targeted prophylactic sleep enhancement, and to establish treatment guidelines as appropriate. CITATION Swift KM, Thomas CL, Balkin TJ, Lowery-Gionta EG, Matson LM. Acute sleep interventions as an avenue for treatment of trauma-associated disorders. J Clin Sleep Med. 2022;18(9):2291-2312.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin M. Swift
- Medical Readiness Systems Biology, Walter Reed Army Institute of Research, Silver Spring, Maryland
| | - Connie L. Thomas
- Department of Sleep Medicine, Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Bethesda, Maryland
- Department of Psychiatry, Uniformed Services University of Health Sciences, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Thomas J. Balkin
- Behavioral Biology Branch, Walter Reed Army Institute of Research, Silver Spring, Maryland
| | - Emily G. Lowery-Gionta
- Behavioral Biology Branch, Walter Reed Army Institute of Research, Silver Spring, Maryland
| | - Liana M. Matson
- Behavioral Biology Branch, Walter Reed Army Institute of Research, Silver Spring, Maryland
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7
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van der Heijden AC, van den Heuvel OA, van der Werf YD, Talamini LM, van Marle HJF. Sleep as a window to target traumatic memories. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2022; 140:104765. [PMID: 35803396 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2022.104765] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2022] [Revised: 06/20/2022] [Accepted: 07/01/2022] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a severe psychiatric disorder in which traumatic memories result in flashbacks and nightmares. With one-third of patients not responding to standard exposure-based psychotherapy, new treatment strategies are needed. Sleep offers a unique time window to enhance therapeutic efficacy. Traumatic memories that are neutralized in therapy need to be stored back into memory (consolidated) during sleep to solidify the treatment effect. New basic research shows that memory consolidation can be enhanced by presenting sounds or scents that were linked to the memory at encoding, again during sleep. This procedure, termed targeted memory reactivation (TMR), has, despite its clinical potential, not been tested in (PTSD) patients. In this narrative review, we explore the potential of TMR as a new sleep-based treatment for PTSD. First we provide the necessary background on the memory and sleep principles underlying PTSD as well as the present applications and conditional factors of TMR. Then, we will discuss the outstanding questions and most promising experimental avenues when testing TMR to treat traumatic memories.
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Affiliation(s)
- A C van der Heijden
- Amsterdam UMC location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Department of Psychiatry, Department Anatomy & Neuroscience, Boelelaan 1117, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Amsterdam Neuroscience, Mood Anxiety Psychosis Stress Sleep, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.
| | - O A van den Heuvel
- Amsterdam UMC location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Department of Psychiatry, Department Anatomy & Neuroscience, Boelelaan 1117, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Amsterdam Neuroscience, Compulsivity Impulsivity and Attention, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Y D van der Werf
- Amsterdam UMC location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Department of Psychiatry, Department Anatomy & Neuroscience, Boelelaan 1117, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Amsterdam Neuroscience, Compulsivity Impulsivity and Attention, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - L M Talamini
- University of Amsterdam, Dept. of Psychology, Brain & Cognition, Nieuwe Achtergracht 129B, 1018 WS Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - H J F van Marle
- Amsterdam UMC location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Department of Psychiatry, Department Anatomy & Neuroscience, Boelelaan 1117, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Amsterdam Neuroscience, Mood Anxiety Psychosis Stress Sleep, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; GGZ inGeest Mental Health Care, Amstelveenseweg 589, 1081 JC Amsterdam, the Netherlands
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8
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Krishnakumari K, Munivenkatappa M, Hegde S, Muralidharan K. A Systematic Chart Review of Adults with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder: Data from a Tertiary Care Psychiatry Center in India. Indian J Psychol Med 2022; 44:378-383. [PMID: 35910407 PMCID: PMC9301746 DOI: 10.1177/02537176211035074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is an understudied construct in the psychiatric setting. The majority of existing Indian studies on PTSD focus on the general population or disaster-stricken communities. Here, we present data from a five-year retrospective chart review from a tertiary care psychiatric center in India. METHODS Medical records of adult patients (≥18 years) who had attended psychiatry outpatient services between April 1, 2015 and March 31, 2020 (five years) and were diagnosed with PTSD, as per ICD-10 criteria, were reviewed (n = 113). The relevant sociodemographic and clinical details were extracted using a semistructured pro-forma. RESULTS The percentage of adult patients with PTSD diagnosis in the five years was 0.22%. PTSD was more common in females (n = 65, 57.5%). Most patients had interpersonal trauma (n = 85, 75.2%), specifically sexual abuse (n = 47, 41.6%). The median age of onset was 22 years. All the patients had re-experiencing symptoms, with an equally high rate of avoidance (n = 109, 96.5%) and arousal symptoms (n = 110, 97.3%). 82%(93) had a comorbid psychiatric disorder, with mood disorder being the most common (n = 44, 38.9%). Males had a higher rate of comorbid substance use disorder (n = 14, 29.2%) and depression (n = 20,42%), and females had a higher rate of comorbid dissociative disorder (n = 13,20%). Most of the patients received non-trauma-focused psychological interventions, and only 18% (20) received evidence-based trauma-focused psychological interventions. CONCLUSION Interpersonal trauma, specifically sexual abuse, largely contributes to PTSD among adults attending psychiatric services. The need for trauma-focused psychological interventions is underscored.
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Affiliation(s)
- K Krishnakumari
- Dept. of Clinical Psychology, M.V. Govindaswamy Centre, National Institute of Mental Health & Neurosciences (NIMHANS), Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
| | - Manjula Munivenkatappa
- Dept. of Clinical Psychology, M.V. Govindaswamy Centre, National Institute of Mental Health & Neurosciences (NIMHANS), Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
| | - Shantala Hegde
- Dept. of Clinical Psychology, M.V. Govindaswamy Centre, National Institute of Mental Health & Neurosciences (NIMHANS), Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
| | - Kesavan Muralidharan
- Dept. of Psychiatry, National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences (NIMHANS), Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
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9
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Xu X, Xie T, Zhou N, Shi G, Wen J, Wang J, Li X, Poppen PJ. Network analysis of PGD, PTSD and insomnia symptoms in Chinese shidu parents with PGD. Eur J Psychotraumatol 2022; 13:2057674. [PMID: 35401947 PMCID: PMC8986251 DOI: 10.1080/20008198.2022.2057674] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2021] [Accepted: 03/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Chinese shidu parents (bereaved parents over the age of 49 who have lost their only child) are potentially at a high risk of prolonged grief disorder (PGD), posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and insomnia. Objective The current study aimed to estimate three network models in 310 shidu parents who met the ICD-11 criteria for PGD: (1) a PGD network to identify central symptoms; (2) a comorbidity network to explore bridge symptoms between PGD and PTSD; (3) a comorbidity network to examine the associations between PGD and insomnia symptoms. Methods The R-packages bootnet, qgraph and networktools were used to investigate the structure of network models and centrality indices of symptoms. In addition, robustness and significance analyses for the edge weights and the order of centrality were performed. Results Emotional pain and numbness emerged as the most central symptoms in the PGD network. In the PGD-PTSD comorbidity network, the highest bridge strength symptoms were inability to trust others (PGD) and feeling upset (PTSD). Inability to trust others (PGD), avoidance (PGD), and impairment of life quality (insomnia) were possible bridge symptoms connecting PGD and insomnia. Conclusions Reducing emotional pain and numbness may be a viable target in PGD interventions for shidu parents. Additionally, findings suggest that future studies could examine the role of inability to trust others and avoidance in PGD comorbidities. HIGHLIGHTS • Emotional pain and numbness were the most influential symptoms in shidu parents with PGD. The role of PGD symptoms of inability to trust others and avoidance in the comorbidities of PGD with PTSD and insomnia might be worthy of further study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Xu
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Applied Experimental Psychology, National Demonstration Center for Experimental Psychology Education (Beijing Normal University), Faculty of Psychology, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Tong Xie
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Applied Experimental Psychology, National Demonstration Center for Experimental Psychology Education (Beijing Normal University), Faculty of Psychology, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Ningning Zhou
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Mental Health and Psychological Crisis Intervention, School of Psychology and Cognitive Science, East China Normal University, Shanghai, People’s Republic of China
| | - Guangyuan Shi
- Center for psychological development, Tsinghua University, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Jun Wen
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Applied Experimental Psychology, National Demonstration Center for Experimental Psychology Education (Beijing Normal University), Faculty of Psychology, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Jianping Wang
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Applied Experimental Psychology, National Demonstration Center for Experimental Psychology Education (Beijing Normal University), Faculty of Psychology, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xin Li
- State Key Laboratory of Cognitive Neuroscience and Learning, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Paul J. Poppen
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, The George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA
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10
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Cramm H, Richmond R, Jamshidi L, Edgelow M, Groll D, Ricciardelli R, MacDermid JC, Keiley M, Carleton RN. Mental Health of Canadian Firefighters: The Impact of Sleep. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph182413256. [PMID: 34948864 PMCID: PMC8701315 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph182413256] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2021] [Revised: 12/08/2021] [Accepted: 12/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Volunteer and career firefighters are at risk of major depressive disorders, posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), alcohol use disorder, and other mental health disorders due to the demanding and unpredictable nature of their employment. The mental health risks are exacerbated by the need to work extended hours, night shifts, and/or rotating schedules, or the competing demands of other employment, especially in volunteer firefighters. The mental health disorders and risk factors interact with altered sleeping patterns. In the current study, we examined volunteer and career firefighters regarding the association between mental health and sleep, drawing from a national Canadian mental health survey of 1217 firefighters. Most (69%) of the firefighters reported less than ideal sleep quality and 21% screened positive for clinical insomnia, with no significant difference between volunteer and career subgroups. Firefighters with insomnia had higher odds ratios (OR) and frequencies for PTSD (OR = 4.98), generalized anxiety disorder (OR = 7.15), panic disorder (OR = 6.88), social phobia (OR = 4.98), and major depressive disorder (OR = 7.91), than firefighters without insomnia. The burden of sleep disorders and their association with mental health disorders suggests that sleep should be considered in health monitoring and self-management, environmental design, fire service work-organization policies, and health programming.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heidi Cramm
- School of Rehabilitation Therapy, Queen's University, Kingston, ON K7L 3N6, Canada
| | - Rachel Richmond
- School of Rehabilitation Therapy, Queen's University, Kingston, ON K7L 3N6, Canada
| | - Laleh Jamshidi
- Department of Psychology, University of Regina, Regina, SK S4S 0A2, Canada
| | - Megan Edgelow
- School of Rehabilitation Therapy, Queen's University, Kingston, ON K7L 3N6, Canada
| | - Dianne Groll
- Department of Psychiatry, Queen's University, Kingston, ON K7L 3N6, Canada
| | - Rose Ricciardelli
- Department of Sociology, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John's, NL A1C 5S7, Canada
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Kartal D, Arjmand HA, Varker T, Cowlishaw S, O'Donnell M, Phelps A, Howard A, Hopwood M, McFarlane A, Bryant RA, Forbes D, Cooper J, Hinton M. Cross-Lagged Relationships Between Insomnia and Posttraumatic Stress Disorder in Treatment-Receiving Veterans. Behav Ther 2021; 52:982-994. [PMID: 34134836 DOI: 10.1016/j.beth.2020.12.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2020] [Revised: 12/22/2020] [Accepted: 12/23/2020] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
Insomnia is a risk factor for the development of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) while it is also plausible that PTSD symptoms can maintain insomnia symptoms. The present study examined longitudinal bidirectional relationships between insomnia and PTSD symptoms in treatment-seeking veterans. Participants were 693 ex-serving members of the Australian Defence Force who participated in an accredited, hospital-based outpatient PTSD program. Participants completed self-reported assessments of PTSD and insomnia symptoms at four time points: intake, discharge, 3-month, and 9-months posttreatment follow-up. Cross-lagged pathway analyses indicated significant bi-directional pathways between insomnia symptoms and PTSD symptoms at most time points. A final cross-lagged model between insomnia symptoms and the PTSD symptom clusters indicated that the PTSD symptom paths on insomnia symptoms, between intake and discharge, were attributable to reexperiencing PTSD symptoms. In contrast, across posttreatment follow-up time points there were significant paths of insomnia symptoms on all PTSD symptom clusters except from insomnia at 3-months to avoidance symptom at 9-months. PTSD symptoms and insomnia symptoms have bidirectional associations over time that may lead to the mutual maintenance or exacerbation of each condition following PTSD treatment. Where residual insomnia symptoms are present post-treatment, a sleep-focussed intervention is indicated and a sequenced approach to treatment recommended.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dzenana Kartal
- Phoenix Australia-Centre for Posttraumatic Mental Health and University of Melbourne.
| | | | - Tracey Varker
- Phoenix Australia-Centre for Posttraumatic Mental Health and University of Melbourne
| | - Sean Cowlishaw
- Phoenix Australia-Centre for Posttraumatic Mental Health and University of Melbourne
| | - Meaghan O'Donnell
- Phoenix Australia-Centre for Posttraumatic Mental Health and University of Melbourne
| | - Andrea Phelps
- Phoenix Australia-Centre for Posttraumatic Mental Health and University of Melbourne
| | - Alexandra Howard
- Phoenix Australia-Centre for Posttraumatic Mental Health and University of Melbourne
| | | | | | | | - David Forbes
- Phoenix Australia-Centre for Posttraumatic Mental Health and University of Melbourne
| | - John Cooper
- Phoenix Australia-Centre for Posttraumatic Mental Health and University of Melbourne
| | - Mark Hinton
- Phoenix Australia-Centre for Posttraumatic Mental Health and University of Melbourne
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12
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Sullan MJ, Crocker LD, Thomas KR, Orff HJ, Davey DK, Jurick SM, Twamley EW, Norman SB, Schiehser DM, Aupperle R, Jak AJ. Baseline sleep quality moderates symptom improvement in veterans with comorbid PTSD and TBI receiving trauma-focused treatment. Behav Res Ther 2021; 143:103892. [PMID: 34091276 DOI: 10.1016/j.brat.2021.103892] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2021] [Revised: 05/14/2021] [Accepted: 05/20/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Poor sleep quality is common among Veterans with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and history of traumatic brain injury (TBI). However, the relationship between sleep quality and treatment outcomes following trauma-focused interventions is less well-understood in this population. We sought to better understand whether 1) sleep quality changed as a result of trauma-focused treatment and 2) if baseline sleep quality moderated psychological and neurobehavioral treatment outcomes. Our sample consisted of 100 Iraq/Afghanistan era Veterans with PTSD and history of mild to moderate TBI who were randomized to one of two trauma-focused treatments: 1) Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) or 2) combined CPT and Cognitive Symptom Management and Rehabilitation Therapy (SMART-CPT). Self-reported sleep quality, psychiatric symptoms (PTSD and depression), and neurobehavioral concerns were assessed at multiple timepoints throughout the study. Multilevel modeling showed sleep quality did not improve, regardless of treatment condition. However, worse baseline sleep quality was associated with less improvement in PTSD symptoms and cognitive complaints. There was no effect of baseline sleep quality on change in depression symptoms. These findings suggest that more targeted treatments to address sleep quality either prior to or in conjunction with trauma-focused therapy may help to improve treatment outcomes for Veterans with comorbid PTSD and TBI history.
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Affiliation(s)
- Molly J Sullan
- Psychology Service, VA San Diego Healthcare System, 3350 La Jolla Village Dr, San Diego, CA, 92161, USA; Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Diego, 9500 Gilman Dr., San Diego, CA, 92093, USA
| | - Laura D Crocker
- Center of Excellence for Stress and Mental Health, VA San Diego Healthcare System, 3350 La Jolla Village Dr, San Diego, CA, 92161, USA; Research Service, VA San Diego Healthcare System, 3350 La Jolla Village Dr., Building 13, San Diego, CA, 92161, USA
| | - Kelsey R Thomas
- Research Service, VA San Diego Healthcare System, 3350 La Jolla Village Dr., Building 13, San Diego, CA, 92161, USA; Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Diego, 9500 Gilman Dr., San Diego, CA, 92093, USA
| | - Henry J Orff
- Center of Excellence for Stress and Mental Health, VA San Diego Healthcare System, 3350 La Jolla Village Dr, San Diego, CA, 92161, USA; Research Service, VA San Diego Healthcare System, 3350 La Jolla Village Dr., Building 13, San Diego, CA, 92161, USA; Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Diego, 9500 Gilman Dr., San Diego, CA, 92093, USA
| | - Delaney K Davey
- Research Service, VA San Diego Healthcare System, 3350 La Jolla Village Dr., Building 13, San Diego, CA, 92161, USA
| | - Sarah M Jurick
- Center of Excellence for Stress and Mental Health, VA San Diego Healthcare System, 3350 La Jolla Village Dr, San Diego, CA, 92161, USA; Research Service, VA San Diego Healthcare System, 3350 La Jolla Village Dr., Building 13, San Diego, CA, 92161, USA; Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Diego, 9500 Gilman Dr., San Diego, CA, 92093, USA
| | - Elizabeth W Twamley
- Center of Excellence for Stress and Mental Health, VA San Diego Healthcare System, 3350 La Jolla Village Dr, San Diego, CA, 92161, USA; Research Service, VA San Diego Healthcare System, 3350 La Jolla Village Dr., Building 13, San Diego, CA, 92161, USA; Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Diego, 9500 Gilman Dr., San Diego, CA, 92093, USA
| | - Sonya B Norman
- Psychology Service, VA San Diego Healthcare System, 3350 La Jolla Village Dr, San Diego, CA, 92161, USA; Center of Excellence for Stress and Mental Health, VA San Diego Healthcare System, 3350 La Jolla Village Dr, San Diego, CA, 92161, USA; Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Diego, 9500 Gilman Dr., San Diego, CA, 92093, USA; National Center for PTSD, White River Junction, VT, USA
| | - Dawn M Schiehser
- Center of Excellence for Stress and Mental Health, VA San Diego Healthcare System, 3350 La Jolla Village Dr, San Diego, CA, 92161, USA; Research Service, VA San Diego Healthcare System, 3350 La Jolla Village Dr., Building 13, San Diego, CA, 92161, USA; Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Diego, 9500 Gilman Dr., San Diego, CA, 92093, USA
| | - Robin Aupperle
- Laureate Institute for Brain Research, Tulsa, OK, USA; School of Community Medicine, University of Tulsa, Tulsa, OK, USA
| | - Amy J Jak
- Psychology Service, VA San Diego Healthcare System, 3350 La Jolla Village Dr, San Diego, CA, 92161, USA; Center of Excellence for Stress and Mental Health, VA San Diego Healthcare System, 3350 La Jolla Village Dr, San Diego, CA, 92161, USA; Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Diego, 9500 Gilman Dr., San Diego, CA, 92093, USA.
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13
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Yang H, Liu YJ, Ye JL, Zhao LH, Li LL, Hou XL. Evaluation of sleep disorder in orthopedic trauma patients: a retrospective analysis of 1129 cases. J Orthop Surg Res 2021; 16:344. [PMID: 34051808 PMCID: PMC8164244 DOI: 10.1186/s13018-021-02487-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2021] [Accepted: 05/13/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Background In the trauma center wards, it is not unusual for patients to have sleep disorders, especially patients with an acute injury. Meanwhile, there is substantial evidence that sleep disorder is a predictor of depression and is an important feature of posttraumatic stress disorder. Methods All orthopedic trauma patients confined in a trauma ward in West China Hospital of Sichuan University between April 2018 and July 2019 were included in this retrospective study. Patients with mental impairment or craniocerebral injuries were excluded from the study. Basic demographic data and the Injury Severity Score (ISS) classification based on medical records were collected. The Pittsburgh sleep quality index (PSQI) was used to evaluate sleep quality, the visual analog scale (VAS) was used to evaluate physical pain, and the Barthel Index (BI) was used to evaluate activities of daily living (ADL). Univariate linear regression analysis and multivariate linear regression analysis were used to identify independently related factors. Results The average PSQI score was 6.3 (± 4.0). A total of 581 (51.4%) patients had a PSQI score > 5, indicating the presence of sleep disorders. The PSQI score was > 10 in 174 (15.4%) patients. Univariate statistical analysis showed that age, sex, education, ADL, and ISS classification were associated with increased PSQI scores. Marital status and pain were not associated with increased PSQI scores. When we used multivariate analysis to control for confounding variables, sex, ADL, and ISS classification remained independently associated with PSQI (P = 0.002, < 0.000, and 0.002, respectively). Conclusions In our study, sleep disorders were common (51.4% with PSQI > 5) and serious (15.4% with PSQI > 10) in patients with traumatic orthopedic injury. The following factors were closely associated with sleep disorders: sex, ADL, and ISS classification. Moreover, age and educational attainment have an independent impact on sleep quality. Unexpectedly, the VAS score for pain was not independently associated with the seriousness of sleep quality, which may be related to preemptive and multimodal analgesia. Further studies are required to clarify this ambiguity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hai Yang
- Department of Orthopedics, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, People's Republic of China
| | - Yi-Jia Liu
- Department of Orthopedics, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, People's Republic of China.,School of Nursing, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, People's Republic of China
| | - Jia-Lu Ye
- Mental Health Center, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, People's Republic of China
| | - Li-Hong Zhao
- Department of Orthopedics, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, People's Republic of China
| | - Ling-Li Li
- Department of Orthopedics, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, People's Republic of China.,School of Nursing, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiao-Ling Hou
- Department of Orthopedics, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, People's Republic of China. .,School of Nursing, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, People's Republic of China.
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14
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Sandahl H, Carlsson J, Sonne C, Mortensen EL, Jennum P, Baandrup L. Investigating the link between subjective sleep quality, symptoms of PTSD and level of functioning in a sample of trauma-affected refugees. Sleep 2021; 44:6168908. [PMID: 33710347 DOI: 10.1093/sleep/zsab063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2020] [Revised: 02/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY OBJECTIVES To examine whether baseline sleep quality is associated with baseline symptoms of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and level of functioning, and whether baseline sleep quality and improvement of sleep quality are specific predictors of change in PTSD symptoms and level of functioning. METHODS Data were derived from a four-armed randomised controlled superiority trial (N=219 trauma-affected refugees). All four groups received treatment as usual consisting of a 10-12 months bio-psycho-social treatment program with an additional differential treatment component added to each arm. We performed bivariate correlation analyses, multiple linear regression analyses and mediation analyses to examine associations between baseline sleep quality, change in sleep quality and treatment response for PTSD symptoms and level of functioning. RESULTS Baseline sleep quality correlated with symptoms of PTSD (r = .33) and level of functioning (r=0.15). Baseline sleep quality, improvement of sleep quality and improvement of general well-being were predictors of treatment response for symptoms of PTSD and level of functioning when controlling for age, gender, and baseline symptoms of PTSD and depression. CONCLUSIONS We found that good sleep quality at baseline and improvement of sleep quality were predictors of PTSD treatment response. However, treatment response was more closely associated with improvement in general well-being. The results indicate that the effect of improved sleep quality was partly mediated by a more general mental state improvement. Further research is needed to differentiate if a selected subgroup of patients may profit from sleep enhancing treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hinuga Sandahl
- Competence Centre for Transcultural Psychiatry, Mental Health Center Ballerup, Mental Health Services in the Capital Region of Denmark, Ballerup, Denmark.,Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Jessica Carlsson
- Competence Centre for Transcultural Psychiatry, Mental Health Center Ballerup, Mental Health Services in the Capital Region of Denmark, Ballerup, Denmark.,Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Charlotte Sonne
- Competence Centre for Transcultural Psychiatry, Mental Health Center Ballerup, Mental Health Services in the Capital Region of Denmark, Ballerup, Denmark
| | - Erik Lykke Mortensen
- Department of Public Health and Center for Healthy Aging, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Poul Jennum
- Danish Center for Sleep Medicine, Department of Clinical Neurophysiology, Rigshospitalet - Glostrup, Copenhagen University Hospital, Denmark
| | - Lone Baandrup
- Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Mental Health Center Copenhagen, Mental Health Services in the Capital Region of Denmark, Copenhagen, Denmark
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15
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Haynes PL, Skobic I, Epstein DR, Emert S, Parthasarathy S, Perkins S, Wilcox J. Cognitive Processing Therapy for Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Is Associated with Negligible Change in Subjective and Objective Sleep. Behav Sleep Med 2020; 18:809-819. [PMID: 31739686 DOI: 10.1080/15402002.2019.1692848] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Background: Patients receiving Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), an evidence based therapy for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), report improved sleep quality. However, the majority of studies have examined residual sleep disturbance via self-report surveys or separate items on PTSD measures. This study examined whether CPT delivered to veterans in a VA setting improved sleep indices using state-of-the-art objective and subjective insomnia measures. Participants: Participants were war veterans with a current PTSD diagnosis scheduled to begin outpatient individual or group CPT at two Veteran's Affairs (VA) locations (n = 37). Methods: Sleep symptom severity was assessed using the recommended research consensus insomnia assessment, the consensus daily sleep diary and actigraphy. PTSD symptomatology pre- and post-treatment were assessed using the Clinician Administered PTSD Scale. Results: A small to moderate benefit was observed for the change in PTSD symptoms across treatment (ESRMC = .43). Effect sizes for changes on daily sleep diary and actigraphy variables after CPT were found to be negligible (Range ESRMC = - .16 to .17). Sleep indices remained at symptomatic clinical levels post-treatment. Discussion: These findings support previous research demonstrating a need for independent clinical attention to address insomnia either before, during, or after PTSD treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patricia L Haynes
- Department of Health Promotion Sciences, University of Arizona , Tucson.,Southern Arizona VA Health Care System, Mental Health Service Line , Tucson
| | - Iva Skobic
- Department of Health Promotion Sciences, University of Arizona , Tucson
| | - Dana R Epstein
- School of Nutrition and Health Promotion, Arizona State University , Tempe.,Research Service, Phoenix VA Health Care System , Phoenix
| | - Sarah Emert
- Department of Psychology, University of Alabama , Tuscaloosa.,Biomedical Research Foundation of Southern Arizona , Tucson
| | - Sairam Parthasarathy
- Department of Medicine, University of Arizona , Tucson.,Southern Arizona VA Health Care System,Research Service Line , Tucson
| | - Suzanne Perkins
- Southern Arizona VA Health Care System, Mental Health Service Line , Tucson
| | - James Wilcox
- Southern Arizona VA Health Care System, Mental Health Service Line , Tucson
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16
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Fear of sleep and trauma-induced insomnia: A review and conceptual model. Sleep Med Rev 2020; 55:101383. [PMID: 32992229 DOI: 10.1016/j.smrv.2020.101383] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2020] [Revised: 07/01/2020] [Accepted: 07/01/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Trauma-induced insomnia is a symptom of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and is reported to be particularly distressing and often persists even after remission of the core symptoms of PTSD. Recently, it has been suggested that fear of sleep plays an important role in the development and maintenance of trauma-induced insomnia. The aim of this review is to propose a conceptual model of fear of sleep as a maintaining factor of trauma-induced insomnia. After a brief overview of the role of sleep in PTSD, the concept of fear of sleep is introduced. Theoretical considerations and empirical findings on the role of fear of sleep for trauma-induced insomnia in the context of PTSD are summarized and integrated. Specifically, links between PTSD symptoms and fear of sleep are presented, as well as possible consequences of fear of sleep leading to trauma-induced insomnia. Finally, we highlight methodological issues, identify areas for future research, and discuss potential clinical implications.
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17
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Zalta AK, Pinkerton LM, Valdespino-Hayden Z, Smith DL, Burgess HJ, Held P, Boley RA, Karnik NS, Pollack MH. Examining Insomnia During Intensive Treatment for Veterans with Posttraumatic Stress Disorder: Does it Improve and Does it Predict Treatment Outcomes? J Trauma Stress 2020; 33:521-527. [PMID: 32216141 PMCID: PMC7529651 DOI: 10.1002/jts.22505] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2019] [Revised: 10/17/2019] [Accepted: 10/22/2019] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
Previous research has demonstrated that sleep disturbances show little improvement with evidence-based psychotherapy for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD); however, sleep improvements are associated with PTSD treatment outcomes. The goal of the current study was to evaluate changes in self-reported insomnia symptoms and the association between insomnia symptoms and treatment outcome during a 3-week intensive treatment program (ITP) for veterans with PTSD that integrated cognitive processing therapy (CPT), mindfulness, yoga, and other ancillary services. As part of standard clinical procedures, veterans (N = 165) completed self-report assessments of insomnia symptoms at pre- and posttreatment as well as self-report assessments of PTSD and depression symptoms approximately every other day during treatment. Most veterans reported at least moderate difficulties with insomnia at both pretreatment (83.0%-95.1%) and posttreatment (69.1-71.3%). Statistically significant reductions in self-reported insomnia severity occurred from pretreatment to posttreatment; however, the effect size was small, d = 0.33. Longitudinal mixed-effects models showed a significant interactive effect of Changes in Insomnia × Time in predicting PTSD and depression symptoms, indicating that patients with more improvements in insomnia had more positive treatment outcomes. These findings suggest that many veterans continued to struggle with sleep disruption after a 3-week ITP, and successful efforts to improve sleep could lead to better PTSD treatment outcomes. Further research is needed to establish how adjunctive sleep interventions can be used to maximize both sleep and PTSD outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alyson K. Zalta
- Department of Psychological Science, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, California, USA,Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Linzy M. Pinkerton
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois, USA,Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | | | - Dale L. Smith
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois, USA,Department of Psychology, Olivet Nazarene University, Bourbonnais, Illinois, USA
| | - Helen J. Burgess
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois, USA,Department of Psychiatry, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Philip Held
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Randy A. Boley
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Niranjan S. Karnik
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Mark H. Pollack
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois, USA
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18
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Freeman D, Sheaves B, Waite F, Harvey AG, Harrison PJ. Sleep disturbance and psychiatric disorders. Lancet Psychiatry 2020; 7:628-637. [PMID: 32563308 DOI: 10.1016/s2215-0366(20)30136-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 273] [Impact Index Per Article: 68.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2020] [Revised: 02/22/2020] [Accepted: 03/17/2020] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Signs of mental ill health that cut across psychiatric diagnostic categories at high rates are typically viewed as non-specific occurrences, downgraded in importance and disregarded. However, problems not associated with particular diagnoses should be expected if there is shared causation across mental health conditions. If dynamic networks of interacting symptoms are the reality of mental health presentations, then particularly disruptive and highly connected problems should be especially common. The non-specific occurrence might be highly consequential. One non-specific occurrence that is often overlooked is patients' chronic difficulty in getting good sleep. In this Review, we consider whether disrupted sleep might be a contributory causal factor in the occurrence of major types of mental health disorders. It is argued that insomnia and other mental health conditions not only share common causes but also show a bidirectional relationship, with typically the strongest pathway being disrupted sleep as a causal factor in the occurrence of other psychiatric problems. Treating insomnia lessens other mental health problems. Intervening on sleep at an early stage might be a preventive strategy for the onset of clinical disorders. Our recommendations are that insomnia is assessed routinely in the occurrence of mental health disorders; that sleep disturbance is treated in services as a problem in its own right, yet also recognised as a pathway to reduce other mental health difficulties; and that access to evidence-based treatment for sleep difficulties is expanded in mental health services.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Freeman
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK; Health National Health Service Foundation Trust, Oxford, UK.
| | - Bryony Sheaves
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK; Health National Health Service Foundation Trust, Oxford, UK
| | - Felicity Waite
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK; Health National Health Service Foundation Trust, Oxford, UK
| | - Allison G Harvey
- Department of Psychology, University of California, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | - Paul J Harrison
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK; Health National Health Service Foundation Trust, Oxford, UK
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19
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Werner GG, Danböck SK, Metodiev S, Kunze AE. Pre-Sleep Arousal and Fear of Sleep in Trauma-Related Sleep Disturbances: A Cluster-Analytic Approach. CLINICAL PSYCHOLOGY IN EUROPE 2020; 2:e2699. [PMID: 36397829 PMCID: PMC9645493 DOI: 10.32872/cpe.v2i2.2699] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2019] [Accepted: 12/05/2019] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Trauma-related sleep disturbances constitute critical symptoms of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), but sleep symptoms often reside even after successful trauma-focused psychotherapy. Therefore, currently unattended factors - like fear of sleep (FoS) - might play a crucial role in the development and maintenance of residual sleep disturbances. However, it is unclear whether trauma-exposed individuals exhibit different symptomatic profiles of sleep disturbances that could inform individualized therapeutic approaches and eventually enhance treatment efficacy. Method In a large online study, a two-step cluster analysis and a hierarchical cluster analysis using Ward's method were performed to explore subgroups among trauma-exposed individuals (N = 471) in terms of FoS, different aspects of trauma-related sleep disturbances (e.g., insomnia symptoms, nightmares, arousal), and PTSD symptoms. These variables were compared between resulting clusters using ANOVAs and Scheffé's post-hoc tests. Results The hierarchical cluster analysis supported 3- and 4-cluster solutions. The 3-cluster solution consisted of one "healthy" (n = 199), one "subclinical" (n = 223), and one "clinical" (n = 49) cluster, with overall low, medium, and high symptomatology on all used variables. In the 4-cluster solution, the clinical cluster was further divided into two subgroups (n = 38, n = 11), where one cluster was specifically characterized by elevated somatic pre-sleep arousal and high levels of FoS. Conclusions A subgroup of trauma-exposed individuals with PTSD and sleep disturbances suffers from increased pre-sleep arousal and FoS, which has been suggested as one possible explanation for residual sleep disturbances. In these patients, FoS might be a relevant treatment target.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriela G. Werner
- Department of Psychology, LMU Munich [study institution], Munich, Germany
| | - Sarah K. Danböck
- Department of Psychology, LMU Munich [study institution], Munich, Germany
- Department of Psychology, University of Salzburg, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Stanislav Metodiev
- Department of Psychology, LMU Munich [study institution], Munich, Germany
| | - Anna E. Kunze
- Department of Psychology, LMU Munich [study institution], Munich, Germany
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20
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Taylor DJ, Pruiksma KE, Hale W, McLean CP, Zandberg LJ, Brown L, Mintz J, Young-McCaughan S, Peterson AL, Yarvis JS, Dondanville KA, Litz BT, Roache J, Foa EB. Sleep problems in active duty military personnel seeking treatment for posttraumatic stress disorder: presence, change, and impact on outcomes. Sleep 2020; 43:5815720. [DOI: 10.1093/sleep/zsaa065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2019] [Revised: 03/21/2020] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Study Objectives
To examine sleep disorder symptom reports at baseline and posttreatment in a sample of active duty U.S. Army Soldiers receiving treatment for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Explore sleep-related predictors of outcomes.
Methods
Sleep was evaluated in 128 participants in a parent randomized clinical trial comparing Spaced formats of Prolonged Exposure (PE) or Present Centered Therapy and a Massed format of PE. In the current study, Spaced formats were combined and evaluated separately from Massed.
Results
At baseline, the average sleep duration was < 5 h per night on weekdays/workdays and < 6 h per night on weekends/off days. The majority of participants reported clinically significant insomnia, clinically significant nightmares, and probable sleep apnea and approximately half reported excessive daytime sleepiness at baseline. Insomnia and nightmares improved significantly from baseline to posttreatment in all groups, but many patients reported clinically significant insomnia (>70%) and nightmares (>38%) posttreatment. Excessive daytime sleepiness significantly improved only in the Massed group, but 40% continued to report clinically significant levels at posttreatment. Short sleep (Spaced only), clinically significant insomnia and nightmares, excessive daytime sleepiness, and probable sleep apnea (Massed only) at baseline predicted higher PTSD symptoms across treatment course. Short weekends/off days sleep predicted lower PTSD symptom improvement in the Spaced treatments.
Conclusions
Various sleep disorder symptoms were high at baseline, were largely unchanged with PTSD treatment, and were related to worse PTSD treatment outcomes. Studies are needed with objective sleep assessments and targeted sleep disorders treatments in PTSD patients.
Clinical Trial Registration
NCT01049516.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel J Taylor
- Department of Psychology, University of North Texas, Denton, TX
| | - Kristi E Pruiksma
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX
| | - Willie Hale
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX
- Department of Psychology, University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX
| | - Carmen P McLean
- National Center for PTSD, Dissemination and Training Division, VA Palo Alto Healthcare System, Menlo Park, CA
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA
| | - Laurie J Zandberg
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Lily Brown
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Jim Mintz
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX
| | - Stacey Young-McCaughan
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX
| | - Alan L Peterson
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX
- Department of Psychology, University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX
- Research and Development Service, South Texas Veterans Health Care System, San Antonio, TX
| | - Jeffrey S Yarvis
- Department of Behavioral Health, Carl R. Darnall Army Medical Center, Fort Hood, TX
| | - Katherine A Dondanville
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX
| | - Brett T Litz
- Massachusetts Veterans Epidemiology Research and Information Center, VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, MA
- Department of Psychiatry, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Boston University, Boston, MA
| | - John Roache
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX
| | - Edna B Foa
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
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21
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Werner KB, Arditte Hall KA, Griffin MG, Galovski TE. Predicting Attentional Impairment in Women With Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Using Self-Reported and Objective Measures of Sleep. J Clin Sleep Med 2019; 15:1329-1336. [PMID: 31538604 PMCID: PMC6760408 DOI: 10.5664/jcsm.7930] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2019] [Revised: 05/14/2019] [Accepted: 05/15/2019] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
STUDY OBJECTIVES There is growing evidence to support sleep impairment as a core feature of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Sleep impairment in PTSD is associated with severe distress and poorer treatment outcomes. Therefore, specific attention to this symptom of PTSD is warranted and accurate assessment of sleep impairment is critical. The current study investigated the association between self-reported and objective assessment of sleep and sustained attention in women with PTSD. METHODS Study participants include 50 treatment-seeking, female, interpersonal violence survivors who have PTSD. Nocturnal sleep duration was measured with self-report sleep diaries and objective actigraphy assessment over the course of 7 nights. Sustained attention during daytime was measured by the Psychomotor Vigilance Task (PVT). RESULTS Results indicated that self-reported nocturnal sleep duration, but not objective or global sleep quality measures, best predicted attentional deficits as indicated by lapses and inverse reaction time on the PVT. Daily sleep diaries predicted 19% and 14% of the variance in attentional lapses and inverse reaction time, respectively. CONCLUSIONS In a sample of women with PTSD, self-reported nocturnal sleep duration predicted deficits in sustained attention. Conversely, sleep duration as measured by actigraphy and global sleep quality, did not predict sustained attention. Findings suggest that assessing sleep impairment on a daily basis may provide clinically relevant information in evaluating daytime symptoms and provide guidance in targeting this particularly troublesome symptom in the treatment of PTSD. CITATION Werner KB, Arditte Hall KA, Griffin MG, Galovski TE. Predicting attentional impairment in women with posttraumatic stress disorder using self-reported and objective measures of sleep. J Clin Sleep Med. 2019;15(9):1329-1336.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kimberly B. Werner
- University of Missouri – St. Louis, Missouri Institute of Mental Health, Saint Louis, Missouri
| | | | - Michael G. Griffin
- Department of Psychology, Center for Trauma Recovery, University of Missouri – Saint Louis, Saint Louis, Missouri
| | - Tara E. Galovski
- National Center for PTSD, VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, Massachusetts
- Department of Psychiatry, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts
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22
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McLaughlin K, Hamilton AL. Exploring the influence of service dogs on participation in daily occupations by veterans with PTSD: A pilot study. Aust Occup Ther J 2019; 66:648-655. [DOI: 10.1111/1440-1630.12606] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2018] [Revised: 07/02/2019] [Accepted: 08/16/2019] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Kathryn McLaughlin
- School of Health and Sport Sciences University of the Sunshine Coast Maroochydore Qld Australia
| | - Anita L. Hamilton
- School of Health and Sport Sciences University of the Sunshine Coast Maroochydore Qld Australia
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23
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Colvonen PJ, Ellison J, Haller M, Norman SB. Examining Insomnia and PTSD Over Time in Veterans in Residential Treatment for Substance Use Disorders and PTSD. Behav Sleep Med 2019; 17:524-535. [PMID: 29364693 PMCID: PMC6645391 DOI: 10.1080/15402002.2018.1425869] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Objective/Background: Insomnia occurs in 66-90% of individuals with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and 36-72% of individuals with substance use disorder (SUD). Individuals with both PTSD and SUD are more likely to have insomnia than individuals with only one disorder. Insomnia is associated with poorer treatment outcomes for both PTSD and SUD, increased daytime symptomology for PTSD, and increased relapse for SUDs. As such, it is important to understand how sleep affects PTSD treatment among patients dually diagnosed with SUD and how sleep changes over time in a residential unit for SUDs. Participants: Participants were 40 veterans with comorbid PTSD and SUD in a 28-day Substance Abuse Residential Rehabilitation Treatment Program (SARRTP) PTSD track. Methods: Analyses used mixed models with Time (baseline, posttreatment, 3-month follow-up) to examine PTSD and insomnia severity over time. Results: Results of the longitudinal mixed model showed that PTSD symptoms improved over time but that insomnia symptoms did not. Although baseline insomnia did not affect follow-up PTSD symptoms, individuals with greater insomnia severity at the start of treatment had more severe baseline PTSD symptomatology. However, there was not an interaction of insomnia and PTSD severity over time such that baseline insomnia did not affect PTSD trajectories. Conclusions: These findings are consistent with the PTSD outpatient treatment findings and further adds evidence that insomnia is unremitting without direct intervention. Given the relationship insomnia has with PTSD severity, SUD, and relapse, directly targeting insomnia may further help improve both PTSD and SUD treatment outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter J Colvonen
- a VA San Diego Healthcare System , San Diego , California.,b Department of Psychiatry , University of California at San Diego , San Diego , California.,c VA Center of Excellence for Stress and Mental Health , San Diego , California
| | | | - Moira Haller
- a VA San Diego Healthcare System , San Diego , California.,b Department of Psychiatry , University of California at San Diego , San Diego , California
| | - Sonya B Norman
- a VA San Diego Healthcare System , San Diego , California.,b Department of Psychiatry , University of California at San Diego , San Diego , California.,c VA Center of Excellence for Stress and Mental Health , San Diego , California.,d National Center for PTSD , White River Junction , Vermont
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24
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Grzegrzolka J, McEvoy P, Mansell W. Use of the Method of Levels Therapy as a Low-Intensity Intervention to Work With People Experiencing Sleep Difficulties. J Cogn Psychother 2019; 33:140-156. [PMID: 32746389 DOI: 10.1891/0889-8391.33.2.140] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Sleep problems are common with nearly one in three people reporting disturbed sleep. In line with guidelines, most people experiencing poor sleep in the United Kingdom are referred for cognitive and behavioral treatment approaches. A large proportion of these clients are seen by Psychological Well-being Practitioners (PWPs) delivering low-intensity therapy within Improving Access to Psychological Therapies (IAPT) services. The training of PWPs in the treatment of sleep problems is limited to sleep hygiene psychoeducation. The role that sleep hygiene psychoeducation plays in improving sleep quality is unclear, especially if used as a stand-alone intervention. The article introduces method of levels (MOL) as an alternative approach explaining sleep problems by transdiagnostic mechanisms. Two clinical cases are presented to demonstrate how MOL was implemented to support clients with the perceived sleep issue. This article adds to growing evidence that a transdiagnostic approach to helping people experiencing psychological distress is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jakub Grzegrzolka
- Six Degrees Social Enterprise, Southwood House, Greenwood Business Centre, Salford, UK.,Northpoint Wellbeing Limited, Leeds Bridge House, Leeds, UK.,University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Phil McEvoy
- Six Degrees Social Enterprise, Southwood House, Greenwood Business Centre, Salford, UK
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25
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Colvonen PJ, Straus LD, Acheson D, Gehrman P. A Review of the Relationship Between Emotional Learning and Memory, Sleep, and PTSD. Curr Psychiatry Rep 2019; 21:2. [PMID: 30661137 PMCID: PMC6645393 DOI: 10.1007/s11920-019-0987-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW The emotional memory and learning model of PTSD posits maladaptive fear conditioning, extinction learning, extinction recall, and safety learning as central mechanisms to PTSD. There is increasingly convincing support that sleep disturbance plays a mechanistic role in these processes. The current review consolidates the evidence on the relationships between emotional memory and learning, disturbed sleep, and PTSD acquisition, maintenance, and treatment. RECENT FINDINGS While disrupted sleep prior to trauma predicts PTSD onset, maladaptive fear acquisition does not seem to be the mechanism through which PTSD is acquired. Rather, poor extinction learning/recall and safety learning seem to better account for who maintains acute stress responses from trauma versus who naturally recovers; there is convincing evidence that this process is, at least in part, mediated by REM fragmentation. Individuals with PTSD had higher "fear load" during extinction, worse extinction learning, poorer extinction recall, and worse safety learning. Evidence suggests that these processes are also mediated by fragmented REM. Finally, PTSD treatments that require extinction and safety learning may also be affected by REM fragmentation. Addressing fragmented sleep or sleep architecture could be used to increase emotional memory and learning processes and thus ameliorate responses to trauma exposure, reduce PTSD severity, and improve treatment. Future studies should examine relationships between emotional memory and learning and disturbed sleep in clinical PTSD patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter J Colvonen
- VA San Diego Healthcare System, San Diego, CA, 92161, USA.
- Center of Excellence for Stress and Mental Health, San Diego, CA, 92161, USA.
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA, 92161, USA.
| | - Laura D Straus
- Mental Illness Research Education and Clinical Centers, San Francisco VA Healthcare System, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Dean Acheson
- VA San Diego Healthcare System, San Diego, CA, 92161, USA
- Center of Excellence for Stress and Mental Health, San Diego, CA, 92161, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA, 92161, USA
| | - Philip Gehrman
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Philadelphia VA Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA, USA
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26
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Zuj DV, Norrholm SD. The clinical applications and practical relevance of human conditioning paradigms for posttraumatic stress disorder. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2019; 88:339-351. [PMID: 30134147 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2018.08.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2018] [Revised: 07/31/2018] [Accepted: 08/15/2018] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
The classical conditioning paradigm of fear learning has spawned a number of experimental variations for the explanation of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) etiology. These paradigms include extinction learning and recall, fear inhibition, fear generalization, and conditioned avoidance. As such, each of these paradigms have significant applications for understanding the development, maintenance, treatment, and relapse of the fear-related features of PTSD. In the present review, we describe each of these conditioning-based paradigms with reference to the clinical applications, and supported by case examples from patients with severe PTSD symptoms. We also review the neurobiological models of conditioning and extinction in animals, psychiatrically healthy humans, and PTSD patients, and discuss the current balance of evidence suggesting a number of biological, behavioral, and cognitive mechanisms/moderators of the conditioning and extinction process in experimental and clinical contexts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel V Zuj
- Department of Psychology, Swansea University, UK
| | - Seth Davin Norrholm
- Atlanta Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Mental Health Service Line, USA; Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Emory University School of Medicine, USA.
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27
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Using Explicit Case Formulation to Improve Cognitive Processing Therapy for PTSD. Behav Ther 2019; 50:155-164. [PMID: 30661556 DOI: 10.1016/j.beth.2018.04.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2017] [Revised: 04/11/2018] [Accepted: 04/11/2018] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
We investigated the utility of explicit case formulation (CF) within Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) for individuals with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). An uncontrolled pre-posttreatment design was used. Participants attended 12-16 weekly sessions of CPT with explicit CF, where CF guided treatment length and treatment components. Treatment was completed by 19 of the 23 participants who started therapy. Results revealed significant reductions in PTSD and depression severity as well as unhelpful PTSD-related beliefs from pre- to posttreatment (ds between 1.10 - 1.92) and treatment gains were maintained at 3-month follow-up. Of the participants available at posttreatment for assessment, 69% (n = 11/16) met good end-state functioning for PTSD and 62% (n = 8/13) did so at follow-up. Finally, 72% (n = 13/18) of those interviewed at posttreatment no longer met criteria for PTSD and this was found for 93% of those assessed at follow-up (n = 14/15). Treatment, and CF in particular, was found to be acceptable by participants. Explicit case formulation did not interfere with positive outcomes of Cognitive Processing Therapy for PTSD. Further clinical implications and future directions for research are discussed.
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28
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Woodward E, Sachschal J, Beierl ET, Ehlers A. Night-time rumination in PTSD: development and validation of a brief measure. Eur J Psychotraumatol 2019; 10:1651476. [PMID: 31497260 PMCID: PMC6720014 DOI: 10.1080/20008198.2019.1651476] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2019] [Revised: 07/09/2019] [Accepted: 07/25/2019] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Pre-sleep cognitive activity and arousal have long been implicated in the maintenance of insomnia. However, despite high comorbidity between insomnia and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), pre-sleep thoughts in PTSD and their associations with disturbed sleep, have not yet been investigated. Objective: This study presents the development and preliminary validation of a brief self-report measure of the content of trauma-related pre-sleep thoughts: the Trauma Thoughts before Sleep Inventory (TTSI). Methods: Participants (N = 285) were recruited online into five groups: three groups with clinical symptoms, 1) PTSD; 2) depression without PTSD; 3) insomnia without depression or PTSD; and two healthy control groups 4) nontrauma-exposed controls; 5) trauma-exposed controls. The questionnaire was administered at baseline, and for a subsample (n = 157) again one week later to assess test-retest reliability. At baseline, participants also completed questionnaires of sleep quality, PTSD and depression symptoms, and insomnia-related thoughts. Results: The TTSI had good reliability and validity; it discriminated participants with PTSD from those with depression and insomnia, those with depression from insomnia, and correlated with existing measures of pre-sleep thoughts, self-reported pre-sleep arousal and poor sleep. Conclusions: The results support the utility of the TTSI for measuring thoughts that keep people with PTSD awake, although replication in an independent clinical sample is required.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Juliane Sachschal
- Department of Experimental Psychology, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Esther T Beierl
- Department of Experimental Psychology, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Anke Ehlers
- Department of Experimental Psychology, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK.,Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, UK
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29
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The association of insomnia with future mental illness: is it just residual symptoms? Sleep Health 2018; 4:352-359. [DOI: 10.1016/j.sleh.2018.05.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2018] [Revised: 05/07/2018] [Accepted: 05/29/2018] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
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30
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Colvonen PJ, Straus LD, Stepnowsky C, McCarthy MJ, Goldstein LA, Norman SB. Recent Advancements in Treating Sleep Disorders in Co-Occurring PTSD. Curr Psychiatry Rep 2018; 20:48. [PMID: 29931537 PMCID: PMC6645398 DOI: 10.1007/s11920-018-0916-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Comorbidity of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and insomnia, nightmares, and obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is high. We review recent research on psychotherapeutic and pharmacological interventions for sleep disorders in PTSD. RECENT FINDINGS PTSD treatments decrease PTSD severity and nightmare frequency, but do not resolve OSA or insomnia. Research on whether insomnia hinders PTSD treatment shows mixed results; untreated OSA does interfere with PTSD treatment. Cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia is the recommended treatment for insomnia; however, optimal ordering with PTSD treatment is unclear. PTSD treatment may be most useful for PTSD-related nightmares. CPAP therapy is recommended for OSA but adherence can be low. Targeted treatment of sleep disorders in the context of PTSD offers a unique and underutilized opportunity to advance clinical care and research. Research is needed to create screening protocols, determine optimal order of treatment, and elucidate mechanisms between sleep and PTSD treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter J. Colvonen
- VA San Diego Healthcare System, University of California San Diego, 3350 La Jolla Village Dr. (116B), San Diego, CA 92161, USA,Center of Excellence for Stress and Mental Health, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA, USA,Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Laura D. Straus
- Sierra Pacific Mental Illness Research Education and Clinical Centers, San Francisco VA Healthcare System, San Francisco, CA, USA,Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Carl Stepnowsky
- VA San Diego Healthcare System, University of California San Diego, 3350 La Jolla Village Dr. (116B), San Diego, CA 92161, USA,Department of Medicine, University of California, San Diego, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Michael J. McCarthy
- VA San Diego Healthcare System, University of California San Diego, 3350 La Jolla Village Dr. (116B), San Diego, CA 92161, USA,Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Lizabeth A. Goldstein
- Sierra Pacific Mental Illness Research Education and Clinical Centers, San Francisco VA Healthcare System, San Francisco, CA, USA,Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Sonya B. Norman
- VA San Diego Healthcare System, University of California San Diego, 3350 La Jolla Village Dr. (116B), San Diego, CA 92161, USA,Center of Excellence for Stress and Mental Health, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA, USA,Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA, USA,National Center for PTSD, Boston, MA, USA
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31
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Woodward E, Hackmann A, Wild J, Grey N, Clark DM, Ehlers A. Effects of psychotherapies for posttraumatic stress disorder on sleep disturbances: Results from a randomized clinical trial. Behav Res Ther 2017; 97:75-85. [PMID: 28732289 PMCID: PMC5608018 DOI: 10.1016/j.brat.2017.07.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2016] [Revised: 05/16/2017] [Accepted: 07/05/2017] [Indexed: 12/04/2022]
Abstract
The effectiveness and mechanisms of psychotherapies for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in treating sleep problems is of interest. This study compared the effects of a trauma-focused and a non-trauma-focused psychotherapy on sleep, to investigate whether 1) sleep improves with psychotherapy for PTSD; 2) the degree of sleep improvement depends on whether the intervention is trauma or nontrauma-focused; 3) the memory-updating procedure in cognitive therapy for PTSD (CT-PTSD) is associated with sleep improvements; 4) initial sleep duration affects PTSD treatment outcome; and 5) which symptom changes are associated with sleep duration improvements. Self-reported sleep was assessed during a randomized controlled trial (Ehlers et al., 2014) comparing CT-PTSD (delivered weekly or intensively over 7-days) with emotion-focused supportive therapy, and a waitlist. Sleep duration was reported daily in sleep diaries during intensive CT-PTSD. CT-PTSD led to greater increases in sleep duration (55.2 min) and reductions in insomnia symptoms and nightmares than supportive therapy and the waitlist. In intensive CT-PTSD, sleep duration improved within 7 days, and sleep diaries indicated a 40-min sleep duration increase after updating trauma memories. Initial sleep duration was not related to CT-PTSD treatment outcome when initial PTSD symptom severity was controlled. The results suggest that trauma-focused psychotherapy for PTSD is more effective than nontrauma-focused therapy in improving self-reported sleep, and that CT-PTSD can still be effective in the presence of reduced sleep duration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth Woodward
- Department of Experimental Psychology, University of Oxford, UK; National Institute for Health Research (NIHR), Oxford Health Biomedical Research Centre, Oxford, UK.
| | - Ann Hackmann
- National Institute for Health Research (NIHR), Oxford Health Biomedical Research Centre, Oxford, UK
| | - Jennifer Wild
- Department of Experimental Psychology, University of Oxford, UK; National Institute for Health Research (NIHR), Oxford Health Biomedical Research Centre, Oxford, UK
| | - Nick Grey
- National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Mental Health Biomedical Research Centre, South London Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, King's College London, UK
| | - David M Clark
- Department of Experimental Psychology, University of Oxford, UK; National Institute for Health Research (NIHR), Oxford Health Biomedical Research Centre, Oxford, UK; National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Mental Health Biomedical Research Centre, South London Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, King's College London, UK
| | - Anke Ehlers
- Department of Experimental Psychology, University of Oxford, UK; National Institute for Health Research (NIHR), Oxford Health Biomedical Research Centre, Oxford, UK; National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Mental Health Biomedical Research Centre, South London Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, King's College London, UK.
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32
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Cox RC, Tuck BM, Olatunji BO. Sleep Disturbance in Posttraumatic Stress Disorder: Epiphenomenon or Causal Factor? Curr Psychiatry Rep 2017; 19:22. [PMID: 28321643 DOI: 10.1007/s11920-017-0773-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW The goal of this review is to integrate recent findings on sleep disturbance and PTSD, examine sleep disturbance as a causal factor in the development of PTSD, and identify future directions for research, treatment, and prevention. RECENT FINDINGS Recent research highlights a relationship between both objective and subjective sleep disturbance and PTSD across diverse samples. Sleep disturbance also predicts PTSD over time. Finally, treatments targeting sleep disturbance lead to decreased PTSD symptoms, while standard PTSD treatments conclude with residual sleep disturbance. Sleep disturbance may be more than a mere epiphenomenon of PTSD. Future research examining the causal role of sleep disturbance in the development of PTSD, as well as the utility of targeting sleep disturbance in prevention and treatment, is necessary to fully understand the likely bidirectional relationship between sleep disturbance and PTSD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca C Cox
- Department of Psychology, Vanderbilt University, 301 Wilson Hall, 111 21st Avenue South, Nashville, TN, 37240, USA
| | - Breanna M Tuck
- Department of Psychology, Vanderbilt University, 301 Wilson Hall, 111 21st Avenue South, Nashville, TN, 37240, USA
| | - Bunmi O Olatunji
- Department of Psychology, Vanderbilt University, 301 Wilson Hall, 111 21st Avenue South, Nashville, TN, 37240, USA.
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33
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Kobayashi I, Mellman TA, Altaee D, Howell MK, Lavela J. Sleep and Processing of Trauma Memories. J Trauma Stress 2016; 29:568-571. [PMID: 27923267 PMCID: PMC7298874 DOI: 10.1002/jts.22137] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2016] [Revised: 06/22/2016] [Accepted: 08/27/2016] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Sleep has been implicated in learning processes that appear to underlie recovery from posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The importance of quality and timing of sleep following exposure-based therapies has been suggested. The present study evaluated relationships between sleep and adaptive emotional processing following written narrative exposure (WNE) to memories of traumatic events experienced by participants with clinically significant PTSD symptoms. Participants included 21 urban-residing nontreatment-seeking adults with full or subthreshold symptoms of PTSD who completed 4 sessions of 30-min WNE with the first session either in the evening or the morning. There was a significant reduction of PTSD symptom severity after WNE sessions (partial η = .65), but there was no interaction between group assignment based on the initial session's proximity to sleep and initial reduction of PTSD symptom severity (partial η = .01). Polysomnography following evening WNE revealed increased duration of total sleep and N2%, reduced N3%, and increased eye movement density during REM sleep compared with baseline recordings (dz = 0.65 to 1.15). Reduced N3% and increased REM density were associated with less improvement of PTSD symptoms (r = .58 & -.63). These findings suggest a relationship between preservation of diminished arousal during sleep and adaptive trauma memory processing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ihori Kobayashi
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Howard University, Washington, D.C., USA
| | - Thomas A. Mellman
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Howard University, Washington, D.C., USA
| | - Duaa Altaee
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Howard University, Washington, D.C., USA
| | - Mary Katherine Howell
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Howard University, Washington, D.C., USA
| | - Joseph Lavela
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Howard University, Washington, D.C., USA
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34
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Kelly MR, Killgore WDS, Haynes PL. Understanding Recent Insights in Sleep and Posttraumatic Stress Disorder from a Research Domain Criteria (RDoC) Framework. CURRENT SLEEP MEDICINE REPORTS 2016. [DOI: 10.1007/s40675-016-0056-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
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35
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Zuj DV, Palmer MA, Lommen MJJ, Felmingham KL. The centrality of fear extinction in linking risk factors to PTSD: A narrative review. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2016; 69:15-35. [PMID: 27461912 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2016.07.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 92] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2016] [Revised: 07/13/2016] [Accepted: 07/14/2016] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Recent prospective studies in emergency services have identified impaired fear extinction learning and memory to be a significant predictor of Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), complementing a wealth of cross-sectional evidence of extinction deficits associated with the disorder. Additional fields of research show specific risk factors and biomarkers of the disorder, including candidate genotypes, stress and sex hormones, cognitive factors, and sleep disturbances. Studies in mostly nonclinical populations also reveal that the aforementioned factors are involved in fear extinction learning and memory. Here, we provide a comprehensive narrative review of the literature linking PTSD to these risk factors, and linking these risk factors to impaired fear extinction. On balance, the evidence suggests that fear extinction may play a role in the relationship between risk factors and PTSD. Should this notion hold true, this review carries important implications for the improvement of exposure-based treatments, as well as strategies for the implementation of treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel V Zuj
- Division of Psychology, School of Medicine, University of Tasmania, Tasmania, Australia.
| | - Matthew A Palmer
- Division of Psychology, School of Medicine, University of Tasmania, Tasmania, Australia
| | - Miriam J J Lommen
- Department of Psychology, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Kim L Felmingham
- Division of Psychology, School of Medicine, University of Tasmania, Tasmania, Australia
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