Military Veterans Who Have Problems Sleeping Needed For University of Pittsburgh and VA Research Study

The University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine in collaboration with the VA Pittsburgh Healthcare System and Mental Illness Research, Education and Clinical Centers (MIRECC) is conducting a research study to determine the effectiveness of two sleep-focused treatments for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)-related nightmares and insomnia. The research study will seek to find if these treatments can improve sleep and enhance standard treatments for other symptoms of PTSD.

Researchers are looking to enroll military veterans between the ages of 18 and 60 who have nightmares and insomnia. Participants in the study will receive a physical examination and participate in a sleep study. They will be compensated up to $275 for their time.

Post-traumatic stress reactions that persist for more than one month after a highly stressful event are prevalent in military veterans. These reactions include flashbacks, nightmares, feelings of detachment from others, sleep disturbances and efforts to avoid people and places associated with the stressful event. PTSD is associated with a number of negative emotional and health impacts, including sleep disturbances, such as insomnia and nightmares. These sleep disturbances are often resistant to traditional PTSD treatments, such as cognitive behavioral therapy and medication.