Study Revealed People Suffering From PTSD, Nightmares Are More at Risk of Having Suicidal Tendencies

Nightmares are part of everyone's life, and sometimes it leaves us wondering what a particular dream meant. And although they may not do any harm, some may actually be dangerous for others. A new study revealed that there are evidence that can directly connect nightmares and suicidal behavior.

Researchers from the University of Manchester said there is a mechanism in the connection. The study's author Donna L. Littlewood who is also a researcher in medical and human sciences at the university explained that the mechanism is made up of a series of steps in a pathway including the emotional baggage of being defeated as well as entrapment and hopelessness.

According to the American Academy of Sleep Medicine, nightmares are realistic, clear, and disturbing dreams that usually involve threats to security or survival. These nightmares can be triggered in many possible ways but a poor diet or unresolved stress can also be responsible for it. These dreams can often bring about unpleasant feelings and anxiety. Other people suffer from nightmares that get so out of hand it stops them from doing their normal function. Survey says that about 8 percent of Americans who suffered a traumatic event are more at risk of nightmares.

Patients who have also undergone post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) usually have nightmares in the first three months following the incident and 80 percent of them usually have nightmares that last all their lives.

Medical Daily reported Littlewood explaining how PTSD can increase the risk of having suicidal thoughts and behaviors that can be seen in the study, and how the hallmark symptom of PTSD may be an important treatment target to lower suicide risks. "This study emphasizes the importance of specifically assessing and targeting nightmares within those individuals experiencing PTSD.In addition, monitoring and targeting levels of negative cognitive appraisals such as defeat, entrapment, and hopelessness, may reduce suicidal thoughts and behaviors," she added.

The study which included 91 trauma victims where 51 suffered from post-traumatic stress disorder. They were asked to fill out a list that examined how many nightmares they had, newseveryday reported. Researchers compared the frequency and intensity of the nightmares and then compared its relevance to a list of PTSD requirement.

It was when the researchers found that suicidal thoughts, plans, or attempts were seen in 62 percent of those who experience nightmares and only 20 percent to those patients not experiencing one. Researchers also explained that these nightmares may act as a stressor to those who are suffering from PTSD, since these dreams may start negative cognitive thoughts which can support the suicidal behaviors.