Treatment for trauma-related nightmares in adults with bipolar disorder
Efficacy of a Brief Treatment for Chronic Nightmares Among Trauma-Exposed Persons With Bipolar Disorder
This study is testing a new therapy to see if it can help adults with bipolar disorder who have trauma-related nightmares feel better and sleep more peacefully.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 20 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | University of Tulsa Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Tulsa, Oklahoma) |
| Trial ID | NCT02242110 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This pilot study evaluates the effectiveness of Exposure, Relaxation, and Rescripting Therapy (ERRT) in reducing chronic nightmares among trauma-exposed adults diagnosed with bipolar disorder. Participants will receive weekly sessions focusing on psychoeducation, relaxation techniques, exposure to trauma-related nightmares, and relapse prevention over a five-week period. The study aims to fill a gap in previous research by including individuals with bipolar disorder, who have often been excluded from similar trials. Follow-up assessments will be conducted to measure the long-term efficacy of the treatment.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults diagnosed with bipolar disorder who experience nightmares at least once a week and have been stable on medication for at least two months.
Not a fit: Patients who have experienced a traumatic event within the last month or are currently in a manic or hypomanic state may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this treatment could significantly reduce the frequency and intensity of nightmares, improving sleep quality and overall mental health for patients with bipolar disorder.
How similar studies have performed: While ERRT has shown promise in other populations, this specific application in bipolar disorder is novel and has not been extensively tested.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Nightmares at least once per week for the past month * Formal diagnosis of Bipolar disorder (I or II) * Exposure to traumatic event (1+ months ago) * Stable on bipolar medication for at least 2 months Exclusion Criteria: * A traumatic event within the last month * Intellectual disability * Current or recent mania/hypomania within the last 3 months * Suicide attempt or hospitalization within the last 3 months * Current or untreated substance use disorder within the past 6 months
Where this trial is running
Tulsa, Oklahoma
- University of Tulsa — Tulsa, Oklahoma, United States (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Joanne L Davis, PhD — University of Tulsa
- Study coordinator: Joanne L Davis, PhD
- Email: joanne-davis@utulsa.edu
- Phone: 9186312875
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.