Table 1.

Diagnostic criteria for nightmare disorder according to the International Classification of Sleep Disorders, 3rd edition (ICSD-3) [1]

Criteria A–C must be met:

A. Repeated occurrences of extended, extremely dysphoric, and well-remembered dreams that usually involve threats to survival, security, or physical integrity.

B. On awakening from the dysphoric dreams, the person rapidly becomes oriented and alert.

C. The dream experience, or the sleep disturbance produced by awakening from it, causes clinically significant distress or impairment in social, occupational, or other important areas of functioning as indicated by the report of at least one of the following: 1. Mood disturbance (e.g., persistence of nightmare affect, anxiety, dysphoria) 2. Sleep resistance (e.g., bedtime anxiety, fear of sleep/subsequent nightmares) 3. Cognitive impairments (e.g., intrusive nightmare imagery, impaired concentration, or memory) 4. Negative impact on caregiver or family functioning (e.g., nighttime disruption) 5. Behavioral problems (e.g., bedtime avoidance, fear of the dark) 6. Daytime sleepiness 7. Fatigue or low energy 8. Impaired occupational or educational function 9. Impaired interpersonal/social function